Transfer news: Aston Villa accept Middlesbrough’s bid for striker Rudy Gestede

Aston Villa have accepted a bid from Middlesbrough for striker Rudy Gestede, it is understood.

Head coach Aitor Karanka is hoping to complete a move for the £6million-rated 28-year-old, who is understood to be on Teesside, imminently after Boro formalised their interest in the player.

Karanka's promoted side have made a creditable start to their bid to remain in the Premier League, but goals have been at a premium and the Spaniard is keen to boost the firepower at his disposal for the second half of the campaign.

Gestede, who joined Villa in a £6million switch from Blackburn during the summer of 2015, has found himself surplus to requirements under Steve Bruce and has started only eight Sky Bet Championship games this season.

His impending arrival at the Riverside Stadium could spell the end for Jordan Rhodes or David Nugent with both struggling to force their way into Karanka's plans.

Rhodes, who arrived from Blackburn for an initial £9million in January last year, has been unable to make a real impact on Teesside, but the club would be looking to recoup as much as possible of their investment before allowing him to leave.