Report: Middlesbrough nears completion of Negredo loan

To see a list of completed deals in the summer window thus far, visit theScore's Premier League transfer tracker.

Alvaro Negredo didn't travel with Valencia to its preseason training base in the Netherlands as Middlesbrough reportedly puts the final touches on a loan move for the striker.

The 30-year-old has been targeted by the newly promoted Premier League outfit since May, and according to The Telegraph's Luke Edwards, the deal is finally reaching its conclusion after an agreement on a loan fee. Under the terms of the temporary contract, Aitor Karanka's side would also cover Negredo's wages in full - reportedly £100,000 a week - but has a first option to buy him permanently next summer.

The Spaniard has struggled for form since returning to La Liga initially on loan in 2014, but Boro fans will take confidence from his season sojourn with Manchester City in 2013-14. His strength and ferocity appeared suited to English football, and he often complemented Sergio Aguero magnificently to bag nine goals and three assists in 21 Premier League starts.

Negredo should become the seventh signing for Middlesbrough within 48 hours, with former Valencia teammate Antonio Barragan being confirmed as the sixth last week.

Despite earning automatic promotion to the top flight last season, the Teessiders lacked potency in attack. This was addressed in the winter transfer window by the purchase of Jordan Rhodes from Blackburn Rovers, and after a stuttering start, the striker rounded off the campaign with four goals in his final four starts.

While Negredo would significantly bolster the strike force, it's arguable that the former Sevilla man and Rhodes offer similar threats up front due to their shared physicality.

Middlesbrough begins its 2016-17 Premier League commitments against Stoke City on Aug. 13.