Stoke City have reportedly hijacked Middlesbrough's hopes of signing veteran goalkeeper Shay Given from Aston Villa.
Given, 39, is thought to be available on a free transfer this summer and Boro were believed to be on the verge of securing his services.
Speaking at a press conference earlier today, Boro head coach Aitor Karanka named Given as a possible target, but it now looks like the Teesside club will miss out on his signature.
According to The Gazette, Premier League side Stoke are now in pole position to sign the Irishman after making a last-ditch move.
Given kept 10 clean sheets in 16 games during a loan spell at Middlesbrough in 2013-14.
