Middlesbrough have agreed a fee with Atletico Madrid for former star Juninho.

Boro boss Steve McClaren revealed the sensational news shortly after 1pm this afternoon.

The 27-year-old must now agree terms with Boro after chief executive Keith Lamb agreed a deal with Atletico officials in Madrid yesterday.

The Brazilian midfielder joined Boro for £4.25m in November 1995 but left for Atletico in 1997 following the clubs relegation from the Premiership.

Juninho returned to the club for a second spell when he arrived on loan in September 1999, where he stayed until the end of the season.

On returning to Atletico he was then sent to Vasco De Gama on loan in 2000 and Flamengo a year later.

The news is sure to receive the stamp of appoval from Boro fans who took the little Brazilian to their hearts during his first spell at the club.

"Ever since we came here I've known about how much he's adored by the Boro fans," said McClaren.

"We've followed his progress with Brazil throughout the year. He's back to full fitness and we decided he would be a tremendous assett to this football club.

"Keith went out yesterday to Madrid and spoken to the club and we've agreed a fee.

"All it needs now it for us to speak to the player and see if we can come to an agreement which would bring him back to Middlesbrough.

"I know what kind of player he is and we've watched him very closely.

"He's a player who can do a similar job to Carbone for us last year. I'm excited and hopefully it will come off.

"We're hoping Juninho wants to come here and take his career forward with us.

"We've had positive vibes from all parties and now it's up to the player."

The Teessiders have also confirmed this afternoon that Italian striker Massimo Maccarone has agreed to join the club in a £8.1m deal.

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