Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate will monitor Afonso Alves' situation after his move to AZ Alkmaar was ruled legitimate by Dutch authorities this week.

Southgate said: "We have known for some time of the situation involving AZ Alkmaar and that it would be problematic.

"We will continue to monitor the situation, but that's why you need to keep your options open and negotiate with different clubs over different targets.

"We have an interest in a few players and we will do whatever we can to strengthen the squad before February 1."