A host of clubs are chasing Middlesbrough striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni.

The Times says Southgate will have face-to-face discussions with Yakubu today, but there is a growing acceptance that the Nigeria striker will be leaving Middlesbrough this summer.

Manchester City are regarded as favourites for the Nigeria international, with his £10 million price-tag likely to put off rivals Portsmouth.

There is a feeling at Middlesbrough that the 24-year-old has had his head turned by rumours of interest from rival clubs - he has family based in the South and West Ham United are another possibility - and on occasions his commitment was questioned in private last season.