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Aitor Karanka has confirmed Boro's interest in Tomas Kalas and expects the Czech defender to complete his move in the next 48 hours.

The Chelsea player attended the fourth round FA Cup tie against Barnsley, watching his prospective club's 2-0 victory from the sidelines.

Karanka says the Czech 21-year-old will train with the players at Rockliffe Park on Sunday and he expects a loan deal to be completed soon.

"I think he will train with us to tomorrow and when everything is completed he can play for Middlesbrough," he said.

(Image: © CameraSport)

"The main thing is the player is here and the player wants to be here.

"He is a central defender and right-back.

"I know him because since I came here I have wanted him but I couldn't get him until now.

"He's a player who I have known for a long time and I am pleased he is here."

Kalas could find himself in the team relatively quickly with Boro short of options at right-back.

Emilio Nsue is on African Cup of Nations duty with Equatorial Guinea while Rhys Williams, Ryan Fredericks and Damia Abella are injured.