Middlesbrough look set to land theirfirstsinging of 2017, just in time for thetransferwindow to open on Sunday.
According to reports inThe Guardian, Aston Villa's Rudy Gestede appears to be on his way to the north-east following his inability to hold a down regular spot in the Villa side.
Gestede, whohas scored four goals for Villa this season appears to havefallen behind the likes of Jonathan Kodjia and Ross McCormack in the Villa pecking order.
As a result Boro boss Aitor Karankahas decided to take a risk on the Benin target manand will hope he can repay his trust with the goals to keep his side in the Premier League.
Gestede's move appears to pave the way for Jordan Rhodes to move in the opposite direction.
The Scotland international arrived at the Riversidejust under a year ago and despite his superb record at Championship level is yet to produce in the Premier League. Rhodes has only started two games for Middlesbrough this yearand is yet to score a Premier League goal.
Middlesbrough are currently 15th in the Premiership and sit fourpoints above the relegation zone. Karanka will be hoping for a victory against his old friend Jose Mourinho when his side travel to Old Trafford on New Year's Eve. Three points could even see Boro end 2016 in 12th place.
Aston Villa currently find themselves in 10th place in the Championship after a 2-1 victory against Burton on Boxing Day moved themahead of rivals Birmingham City on goal difference.
Villa welcome Leeds to Villa Park onThursday night, knowing that a victory could see them move to within three points of the play-off spots.