Middlesbrough are nearing the completion of the signing of 32-year-old English former Leeds United defender Sam Byram on a free transfer. Byram, who became a free agent after his second spell at Leeds ended last season, was on Teesside on Monday to complete his transfer. The versatile defender, who can play at both right and left-back, is expected to provide competition for Callum Brittain. He is expected to be Boro’s ninth summer signing and eighth new arrival. The club acted after Head of football Kieran Scott confirmed on BBC Tees last week that signing cover at full-back was being considered. Earlier in the summer, Byram had been linked with a potential return to Norwich City. Throughout his career, Byram has made 61 appearances in the Premier League and 220 in the Championship; his current Transfermarkt market value is €400k.