Ex-Sunderland forward Duncan Watmore signs new deal at Middlesbrough despite interest from elsewhere

The forward has been in fine form since joining the Teessiders in November, scoring five goals in six starts for Neil Warnock’s side.

His performances attracted interest from other clubs, with Premier League duo West Brom and Burnley reportedly keen, while Championship sides Stoke, Swansea and Watford were also credited with interest.

Yet Watmore’s preference was always to stay at Boro, where he has rediscovered his form after suffering several injury setbacks at Sunderland.

The 26-year-old has settled quickly on Teesside and already knew some of his new team-mates, Paddy McNair and Chuba Akpom, who he played with for Sunderland and England Under-21s.

Watmore has also been nominated for December’s Championship Player of the Month award following a series of impressive performances.

The forward scored twice in Boro’s 2-1 win over promotion rivals Swansea and bagged another brace during a 3-0 victory over Millwall before Christmas.

Boro boss Neil Warnock told the club’s website: “We’re delighted to get him on board. I don’t think it was ever in doubt that he would sign with us because he has loved every minute of it here so far.

“He gets on with the players and the staff, and he is really enjoying himself.

“He’s a real good lad. We’re looking forward to having him here on a longer-term basis now and hopefully seeing him score plenty more goals for the club.”

Boro are now preparing for this weekend’s FA Cup trip to Brentford.

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