The Cameroon winger, who can play on either flank, first came to the attention of Boro in last season’s Uefa Cup when he shone at The Riverside in Sporting’s 3-2 victory – when he also scored. Tottenham and Fulham had been leading the chase over the summer, but their interest has now cooled – and Boro are ready to step in.
Boro have been scouring the world for midfield reinforcements and they have been linked with a host of players over the past few weeks, including Owen Hargreaves, Nicky Butt, Phil Neville, Luis Boa Morte, Damien Francis, Jason Euell and Peter Lovenkrands.
However, Boro boss Steve McClaren has yet to bolster his midfield options despite numerous scouting missions.
Now he has turned his attention back to Douala – who again impressed against Boro last week during a 4-0 Sporting victory in a pre-season tournament in the Algarve.
McClaren is obviously convinced by the African star and is now preparing a deal to bring him to The Premiership, and in the process holding off strong competition.
News of Boro’s move, is sure to alert previous suitors Fulham and Tottenham, while Birmingham and Manchester City are also credited with a strong interest.
With the Premiership season less than two weeks away, Boro are still chasing two midfield players but McClaren will hope to try and land Douala quickly before turning his attentions elsewhere – most likely a more central player.