Finn Azaz: Middlesbrough sign Aston Villa midfielder for undisclosed fee

Finn Azaz (centre) scored seven goals while on loan at Plymouth this season

Middlesbrough have signed Finn Azaz from Aston Villa three days after his recall from a loan at Plymouth Argyle.

The attacking midfielder, 23, scored seven goals in 26 league appearances for Argyle this campaign, having also spent last season on loan at Home Park.

Azaz has signed a four-and-a-half year deal at Boro for an undisclosed fee.

"He's an exciting player who already comes with good experience," Boro head coach Michael Carrick told the club website.

"He's had a good season so far, and we're really looking forward to working with him."

Azaz came through the West Brom academy and joined Villa in 2021.

He did not make a first-team appearance for either the Baggies or Villa, but has played more than 150 games in loan spells at Cheltenham, Newport and with the Pilgrims, where he was a key member of the side that won promotion from League One.

He signed a contract extension with Villa last summer and was loaned out to Plymouth again, but recalled this week ahead of his permanent move to Teesside.

Azaz is not eligible for Boro's FA Cup third-round game against Aston Villa on Saturday.

Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

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