Middlesbrough win race to loan Arsenal defender Chambers

Michael Graham

Middlesbrough appear to have fought off competition to sign Arsenal defender Calum Chambers on loan.

The 21-year-old has slipped down the pecking order at the Emirates after initially impressing following a move from Southampton, opening the door for a temporary switch away from the club.

There was little shortage of interest in the thrice-capped England right-back, with Roma, Valancia, Espanyol, Hull, Stoke and West Ham all credited with an interest.

However, it is Boro who seem to have won the race, with Sky Sports reporting a deal is close.

Arsenal, though, are not thought to be open to the idea of allowing Chambers leave permanently, despite the imminent arrival of Shkodran Mustafi, who is set to arrive from Valencia to strengthen their defensive ranks.