MIDDLESBROUGH are poised to make an explosive statement of their intent by tabling a £10m bid for Argentina international Juan Roman Riquelme.

With Ayegbeni Yakubu on the verge of an £11.25m move to Everton, the Teessiders are understood to have made an initial inquiry to Villarreal regarding Riquelme's possible availability.

The Spanish club have told Boro that the 29-year-old midfielder, who still has two years of his current contract to run, is available for a sum of 15 million Euros (around £10m) and chief executive Keith Lamb is paving the way for a formal offer.

Boro boss Gareth Southgate is also considering a move for Heerenveen striker Afonso Alves and PSV Eindhoven marksman Aroune Kone, but Riquelme, who is also interesting Tottenham, boasts a far greater pedigree than any of the strikers that are likely to be available before the transfer window closes.

The South American helped Villarreal reach the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2006 but, after falling out with his employers, he returned to his homeland last season and joined Boca Juniors on loan.

Earlier this week, Riquelme spelled out his desire to join Boca on a permanent basis but, with the cash-strapped Argentinian outfit unable to afford his fee, Villarreal are keen to sell him to a European employer this summer.

Tottenham confirmed their interest earlier this month, although the speculation surrounding Martin Jol's position could have scuppered any move.