Xavier to leave Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough defender Abel Xavier will leave the club this summer after failing to agree a new contract.

Middlesbrough defender Abel Xavier will leave the club this summer after failing to agree a new contract.

The 34-year-old former Portugal defender rejoined Boro last year following a drugs ban having originally signed for the club in August 2005.

Manager Gareth Southgate said: "We have been unable to give Abel the terms he was looking for so Abel has decided to move on for a new opportunity."

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