VIKTOR FISCHER is desperate to prove himself among the ‘big boys’ after agreeing to become Middlesbrough’s first signing of the summer by leaving Ajax.

The Danish international was back in Copenhagen yesterday with selected international team-mates after spending Tuesday night and Wednesday on Teesside finalising the £3.8m transfer.

With everything in place Fischer, a reasonably quick left-winger who is dangerous in front of goal, hopes to get himself in the right frame of mind for his chance to prove himself on the Premier League stage next season.

The 21-year-old said: “I am fully aware that this switch presents the biggest challenge for me. It does not boil down to being physically fit but also mentally fit.

“But if you’re not prepared for that task then you have no place at this level. I am up for challenge … I am ready for the big boys.”

Fischer, who is expected to be the first of many new recruits as Boro gear up for top-flight football for the first time in seven years, also revealed his delight at sealing a move to the North-East.

Before heading back to Teesside to look for a place to live and start pre-season training under Aitor Karanka he will play for Denmark in a friendly with Bosnia on June 3.

The switch from Amsterdam cannot officially go through until the international transfer window opens on June 9 but everything is in place and agreed for the deal to happen.

Fischer, speaking in Denmark after completing his medical and returning home, said: “I signed with Middlesbrough yesterday (Wednesday). I’m very happy to make this move to a big club in possibly the biggest league in the world.

“I have always dreamed of playing for the biggest teams in England. At this point in my career Middlesbrough is a major club where I look forward to face the challenges ahead.”

Fischer is regarded as one of his country’s most promising talents and has been likened to Tottenham’s Christian Eriksen, although injuries over the last couple of years have prevented him from finding consistency.

He is, though, renowned for his ability in front of goal, despite tending to play behind or wide of the front-man. Fischer said: “I spoke to Christian on Tuesday and I also spoke to Kasper Schmeichel but I find it hard to discuss choices with others.

“I get a very good feeling with Middlesbrough. It is the right thing for me.”

Fischer is renowned for his ability in front of goal, despite tending to play behind or wide of the front-man and Middlesbrough head coach Karanka has already told him where he is likely to line up.

The former FC Midtjylland youngster, said: "I had a good talk with him (Karanka). He sees me as a left winger or striker. Maybe he sees the game in an unconventional way compared to other managers but there is no questioning his skills.

"This is a big dream for me. I am already in love with the English culture and I have been met with great warmth at the club."

The arrival of Fischer will mark the start of a summer recruitment drive at the Riverside. Middlesbrough have made a number of calls to other clubs, including to West Ham who are unwilling to do business for Michail Antonio.

There have been discussions with James Morrison’s representatives ahead of him becoming a free agent at the end of his West Brom deal, while Karanka wants Gaston Ramirez to return after becoming a free agent at Southampton.