MIDDLESBROUGH are ready to launch a last-ditch attempt to persuade Sean Davis to snub Everton and move to the Riverside, writes Clive Hetherington.

Northern Echo Sport revealed Boro's interest in the Fulham midfielder a month ago, when manager Steve McClaren's initial approach was rebuffed. Everton had a £3.5m offer - rising to £5m - rejected at the same time, and were knocked back again this week with a £4m bid.

But both clubs yesterday confirmed that renewed offers, believed to be worth around £5m, had been accepted.

A Boro spokesman said: "A bid has been accepted and that's as far as it has gone.''

Boro are likely to seek permission to speak to Davis when they face Fulham tomorrow, even though the Cottagers insist there will be no talks until a replacement is found for the England Under-21 star, who is said to prefer a move to Goodison Park.

Fulham yesterday admitted that Sunderland's Claudio Reyna is their top target.

Boro have also been trying to land Lazio's Spain midfielder Gaizka Mendieta on loan, but he is understood to favour a move to his homeland, where Atletico Madrid - who recently failed to secure a deal - are one of two clubs interested.

Meanwhile, Boro yesterday completed the signing of Manchester City goalkeeper Carlo Nash for a "nominal'' fee.

With Mark Crossley moving to Fulham for £500,000, Nash, 29, has been brought in as a replacement on a two-year deal.

McClaren said: "Carlo will provide the quality cover we need for Mark Schwarzer and we are delighted to have signed him."

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