Middlesbrough are reportedly ready to rival Club Brugge for the signing of striker Jelle Vossen.
The 28-year-old spent last season on loan to the Smoggies from Genk, helping them to reach the Championship playoff final.
It is thought that Boro agreed to pay a £2.7m fee for the Belgium international had they won promotion, but after losing the final to Norwich City, they will have to change their transfer plans.
Vossen still has two years remaining on his current deal with Genk, and the Belgian side are thought to be willing to allow him to go out on loan again after failing to qualify for European football next season.
According to the Northern Echo, Brugge are looking to sign Vossen, but Boro head coach Aitor Karanka wants to take him to the Riverside Stadium again and will attempt to tie up another season-long loan deal.
Vossen hit nine goals in 40 games for Middlesbrough in all competitions last term.
Steven Toplis
