Smogs Take A Chance On Ex-Toon Defender

Last updated : 06 February 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

Middlesbrough say they are "hopeful" the centre-back will join on a permanent basis after a deal was struck with Real Madrid.

Boro took the 27-year-old on loan until the end of the season in a bid to get him back to fitness. He has had an injury-plagued two years in Madrid following his £13.4million move from Newcastle - he managed only 12 appearances for the Spanish giants. And there is still doubt over his long-term injury problems - he has missed seven of Boro's 30 matches to date this season.

Real Madrid: "Real Madrid CF and Middlesbrough have reached an agreement for the permanent transfer of Jonathan Woodgate.

"Real Madrid wish Jonathan Woodgate great success both personally and professionally in this new stage of his career."