Middlesbrough have competition as Tottenham eye Porto defender

As a deal with Chelsea looking more likely by the day for Pascal Chimbonda, Tottenham are turning their attention to newly capped Portuguese international defender Jose Bosingwa sending Middlesbrough’s plans into a tailspin.

24 year old Jose Bosingwa has been close to the top of the Middlesbrough shopping lists as contact has been made between the cubs over a transfer for the player. With Abel Xavier as well as Stuart Parnaby leaving the Riverside, Gareth Southgate is desperate for a new right back. Bosingwa can alternate between right back and the right wing.

It appears that Boro are no longer alone in the chase for the player, Tottenham have already rejected a 10m offer for Pascal Chimbonda but expectations are that Chelsea will make a better offer. Should that deal be completed, it appears Martin Jol has the impressive Boswinga in mind.

Bosingwa earned his first cap for Portugal during this Saturday’s 2-1 win against a stubborn Belgium. He came on as a substitute as the regular starter Miguel pulled up limp with a hamstring pull. He had his best season for Porto last season but fell out with manager Jesualdo Ferreira after the club singed Uruguayan international Fucile who plays the same position.

Best part about a move for Boswinga is that he would likely be available on a free transfer from FC Porto. From there it comes down to who would offer the best salary, in that case Tottenham would probably have the leg up.

Jose Bosingwa was born in Congo but after six seasons in Portugal he has become a naturalized citizen ala Deco. Before playing for Porto he was a member of cross town rivals Boavista FC. He was also a member of the 2004 European Cup winning side managed by Jose Mourinho.