MIDDLESBROUGH'S hopes of signing Shay Given have suffered a major blow after Stoke City launched a last-ditch attempt to sign the veteran goalkeeper.

Boro had agreed a deal with both Given and Aston Villa that would have seen the 39-year-old return to the Riverside following a successful loan spell in the 2013-14 season.

Villa had agreed to cancel the final year of Given's contract at Villa Park, and the Republic of Ireland international had provided a verbal assurance that he was willing to move to the Riverside on a two-year deal.

Aitor Karanka confirmed the club's pursuit of Given at a press conference this afternoon, but Boro officials became aware of competing interest from Stoke shortly after.

The Potters are set to lose Asmir Begovic, and Mark Hughes has identified Given as the ideal person to work alongside England squad member Jack Butland.

Given would not be guaranteed first-team football at the Britannia Stadium, but sources in the Midlands claim the Irishman has decided to pull out of his proposed Boro move and head to Stoke instead.

Earlier today, Karanka said: "We are working on the goalkeeper position, as well as trying to strengthen the midfield and attacking positions.

“Shay was here and he knows me. We are working on it, so let’s see what happens. I hope something can happen because Shay is at the top of our list.”

Karanka has confirmed Boro's interest in Stewart Downing, but ruled out a return for Patrick Bamford, who spent last season on loan at the Riverside.