Middlesbrough have been linked with a surprise move for former star Nick Barmby.

Barmby left for Everton after a successful spell at the Riverside five seasons ago. Signed by manager Bryan Robson in his first season in the Premiership for a then club record £5.25 Million, Barmby was an instant hit, but later found himself in the shadow with the signings of Juninho and Ravanelli, and the fantastic form of Craig Hignett.

Now at Liverpool, Barmby is expected to be allowed to leave in the summer, after a disappointing season on the treatment table.

It is understood new Boro boss Steve McClaren may decide to go for Barmby, if he can not agree a deal with loan star Benito Carbone. Talks are said to be ongoing, but it is thought there is a potential stumbling block in the length of the deal. Carbone is said to want a five year deal, keeping him at the Boro for the rest of his career, while McClaren is not prepared to offer anything over three years.

North-East rivals Sunderland are also said to be monitoring the Barmby situation.