Exclusive: Finley Munroe Undergoing Middlesbrough Medical After Aston Villa Accept Bid

Middlesbrough have agreed a £300,000 deal to sign promising left-back Finley Munroe from Aston Villa, with the 20-year-old set to undergo a medical at the Riverside Stadium.[1][2]

Munroe, who impressed during a season-long loan at Swindon Town, has been recalled early to facilitate the permanent transfer. The young defender, cousin of England star Declan Rice, joined Villa from Chelsea's academy in 2021 and made two first-team appearances for the Premier League club in the closing weeks of the 2023-24 season. Out of contract this summer, Villa opted not to renew his deal and accepted Boro's bid, which reportedly includes a substantial sell-on clause.[2]

Swindon boss Ian Holloway has warned Villa they are making a mistake by selling Munroe, hailing him as one of the best full-backs he has coached in a 30-year career. "I don't think I've had as good a full-back potentially in my lifetime," Holloway said, comparing him to Seamus Coleman.[2]

Boro, sitting second in the Championship under manager Kim Hellberg, beat competition from Bristol City, Derby, and Watford to secure the player. Munroe is expected to challenge for a first-team spot immediately and could become the club's primary left-back next season. He may even debut against Albion as soon as Friday.[1][2]

This marks the third consecutive January window that Middlesbrough have signed from Aston Villa, following midfielder Finn Azaz in 2024 and winger Samuel Iling-Junior on loan in 2025. The move represents a two-division step up for the still-developing talent, bolstering Boro's squad as they push for promotion.[2][3]

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