Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate has confirmed holding talks with Danny Webber over a possible move to the Riverside, while the Championship outfit are believed to be one of a number of clubs keeping tabs on Fulham's Hameur Bouazza.

Webber, 27, is available on a free transfer after being released by Sheffield United at the end of last season and has attracted interest from several Championship clubs.

Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock has admitted he is keen on the former Manchester United youngster but is aware that the Eagles can not compete with the financial package being offered by Boro.

Southgate has acknowledged he has held discussions with the hitman, although reports claim Boro will have to offload a member of their current strike-force before concluding any deal.

"We were made aware of Danny's availability as a free agent and we have held talks with him," Southgate told the Evening Gazette.

Meanwhile, according to skysports.com Southgate is also interested in signing Algerian winger Bouazza, who has been told by Cottagers boss Roy Hodgson that he is surplus to requirements at Craven Cottage.

SPL rivals Rangers and Celtic are both believed to be interested in the 24-year-old, while it is understood the most recent enquiries have come from Boro, Turkish side Trabzonspor and Greek outfit Aris Salonika.

Although Fulham are keen to sell, and are unlikely to demand more than £1million for the former Watford youngster, who they paid £4million for in 2007, it is also believed they would entertain a season-long loan deal which may well suit Southgate.