MIDDLESBROUGH have confirmed the signing of midfielder Dan Barlaser from Rotherham United.

Barlaser, who watched yesterday's 2-0 win over Watford from the directors' box at the Riverside, has joined Boro on a three-and-a-half year contract.

The Gateshead-born 26-year-old, who began his career in Newcastle United's academy, joins Boro for a fee of around £900,000.

After loan spells at Crewe and Accrington, Barlaser joined Rotherham on a permanent basis after an initial loan spell in South Yorkshire in 2020.

He has made more than 100 senior appearances for the Millers, and has started all of Rotherham's 28 Championship matches this season, scoring two goals and claiming seven assists.

Speaking about the decision to sign Barlaser after yesterday's home win, Boro head coach Michael Carrick said: "It comes down to the character and attitude, and what they can bring to the group, and as a midfielder for how we want to play, Dan fits that perfectly.

“When we had the chance and the opportunity to do it, I’m delighted with the way things have gone. I’m looking forward to working with him and trying to help him improve. He’s delighted to have the opportunity to come and learn, and be part of the team.

“It’s not just about the pitch, and bringing a certain player in, it’s about what goes around the whole situation. He fits. I’ve said before that we’re really specific about what we’re after in certain positions, and it’s not just about taking a good player because they’re a good player. There’s more behind it than that, and Dan fits that perfectly.”