The former Arsenal trainee, a left-sided defender who can also play further forward, completed the formalities of his move at Rockliffe on Saturday morning when he met his new team-mates for the first time.

Bola made 43 appearances for the Seasiders last season after making the switch from Arsenal the previous summer. He also has gained earlier league experience with Notts County and Bristol Rovers where he had loan spells.

At the age of 21, Bola is another player who fits the profile that the club is looking to recruit. He follows Marcus Browne into the club, who joined from West Ham on Friday, and head coach Jonathan Woodgate was delighted to pip a number of other Championship clubs to his signature.

“Marc is another good signing for us and is just the type of player we want here,” he said. “There were other clubs interested, but he wanted to come here, and that’s the important thing.

“Like Marcus, he is young, hungry, has a desire to do well and wants to play for Middlesbrough Football Club.

“I was impressed by what I saw of Marc a few years ago playing for Arsenal in the UEFA Youth League, I’ve followed his progress ever since., and I think he is another great fit for us.”