Increased price frustrates Boro

Gareth Southgate is set to end his chase for Reading midfielder James Harper after the Royals reportedly increased their asking price.

The Boro boss is known to be an admirer of the 27-year-old and has been looking to sign him through the summer, but he appears close to ending his interest.

Reading are believed to have upped their valuation of the player and with both clubs no closer to agreeing a fee, Southgate is now expected to look elsewhere in his attempts to bring in midfield reinforcements.

The search has been intensified as well by the fact that Julio Arca has been ruled out for several weeks with an ankle injury which he picked up in last weekend's pre-season friendly at Hibs.

Boro have not set a timescale on a return to action for the former Sunderland man, but reports suggest it may be the middle of September before the Argentinian will be back in action.