Nigeria international midfielder John Mikel Obi is driving Middlesbrough ahead of Crystal Palace in the race for transfer.
Mikel, 31 is planning for a return to English football following his recent exit from a Chinese club Tianjin Teda.
Reports has claimed that former Eagles boss Tony Pulis refused to accent Mikel’s link with Boro last week to offer him a contract.
This has resulted in speculation that Roy Hodgson would look to take the experienced campaigner to Selhurst Park this January which later prompted Pulis plan to cash in on four players in order to land him.
However,having helped Chelsea win two league titles, three FA Cups, the League Cup, Champions League and Europa League in 11 years at Stamford Bridge, Obi should opt in for Premier League side but may turn down Palace move for game time at Boro if guaranteed regular appearances.
