Middlesbrough striker Massimo Maccarone is to join Siena on a free transfer.
Middlesbrough striker Massimo Maccarone is to join Siena on a free transfer, according to his agent.The one time Italy cap has found opportunities scarce at The Riverside since arriving at Boro from Empoli in 2002, for a club record fee of £8.15million.
Although Maccarone remains somewhat of a cult hero amongst the club's faithful he has struggled to ever establish himself and new incumbent Gareth Southgate has now deemed him surplus to requirements.
Maccarone's agent, Paolo Fabbri, has confirmed that his client is close to signing a long-term deal at Siena, which would seal his return to Serie A before the close of the current transfer window.
"I have just returned from Middlesbrough," said Fabbri.
"We have undergone negotiations for the player's free transfer to Siena.
"We are awaiting the okay from the Middlesbrough chairman (Steve Gibson) for the deal to be completed and that should arrive on Monday.
"There is an agreement with Siena and Maccarone could sign a three to four-year contract with them."
Meanwhile, Middlesbrough have confirmed the appointment of Steve Agnew as the club's new reserve team coach.
Agnew started his coaching career with Boro's academy before two spells on the staff at Leeds United, which sandwiched a role as Martin Scott's number two at Hartlepool.
The former Leicester and Sunderland midfielder - who replaces Colin Cooper, who has been elevated to working with Boro's first team - has spoken of his delight at returning to The Riverside.
Agnew said: "It's great to be back at Boro, where I first started my coaching career. I am really looking forward to working with Gareth Southgate and all the lads.
"Everyone has made me feel at home and I can't wait to get started."
