Middlesbrough sign Dutch midfielder Marvin Emnes

By Chris Wilson 4/07/2008

Marvin Emnes (Getty)

Gareth Southgate has made his first summer signing by clinching a £3.2million deal for Dutchman Marvin Emnes.

The 20-year-old Sparta Rotterdam player has signed a four-year deal with Boro after agreeing personal terms and passing a medical.

"We feel we have signed an exciting young player in Marvin," Southgate told the club's website.

“Last season was his breakthrough year at Sparta Rotterdam and he ended the campaign with a flurry, scoring eight goals in his final 10 games.

“He can play anywhere across the front line, so he has versatility to go with pace, energy and technical skills.”

Emnes is a member of the Dutch Under-21 squad and is likely to join Middlesbrough for pre-season training on Monday.