Middlesbrough have today confirmed the signing of Bristol City centre-back Aden Flint on a four-year contract.

Flint becomes Boro's second signing of the summer joining recent recruit Paddy McNair at the club.

Flint spent five seasons at Ashton Gate where he evolved into one of the best centre-backs outside the Premier League.

He has a keen eye for goal as well, finding the net nine times last season, and 35 times in the last four seasons combined. A record that most midfielders would be proud of.

Flint's arrival signals some competition for places at the back for Boro, with long term players such as Ben Gibson and Daniel Ayala facing being dropped.

The verdict

This is a brilliant signing for Middlesbrough. They had one of the league's strongest defences last season already but this will only make them stronger.

Pulis is renowned for making his teams hard to beat and there is no doubt that is the way he is going with his transfer business as well.

Boro fans should be delighted to see the fierce competition for places at the back.

Ayala, Gibson and now Flint competing for limited will only make each of them much better.

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