Sources: Middlesbrough give Morgan Whittaker permission for Colorado Rapids medical after record fee agreed
Middlesbrough have given Morgan Whittaker permission to undergo a medical at Colorado Rapids, sources have told Football Insider.
The MLS outfit have agreed a club-record deal to sign the 25-year-old, who will now travel to the USA before putting the finishing touches on the deal alognisde medical checks.
Whittaker will become a Designated Player signing for Colorado Rapids, meaning he will be one of up to three players whose wages exceed their current sa;ary cap.
The Middlesbrough winger will join the likes of Lionel Messi, Son Heung-min and Robert Lewandowski, all of whom are on the Designated Player list at their clubs.
Despite interest from a number of clubs in England and across Europe, the player is keen to make the move to the MLS, with the deal worth more than their current record of £6million.
Whittaker's contract at the Riverside Stadium is currently set to run until 2029, but they have agreed a substancial fee to let him move on before the close of the window.
Why are Middlesbrough selling Morgan Whittaker?
Football Insider reported earlier this summer that Whittaker could be available for a "bargain" fee, placing a number of clubs in England and Scotland on alert.
However, Colorado Rapids have moved quickly to beat their rivals to a deal, and the player is now travelling to undergo a medical before the deal will be confirmed.
Whittaker has been a regular starter for Middlesbrough this season, having started all five of their games across all competitions so far.
However, Kim Hellberg has never ruled out the winger's exit despite constant speculation that he could be moved on, with Boro having been open to offers.
Last season, Whittaker scored 14 goals and provided seven assists in 40 Championship appearances, and his exit could come as a blow to Boro in this season's campaign.
Which other clubs have been interested in Whittaker?
Colorado Rapids have pulled off something of a coup by landing Whittaker at this late stage of the window, given the level of interest from higher-profile suitors.
Championship rivals West Ham, Burley and Wolves have all shown an interest in the winger's situation this summer, but ultimately opted against making moves.
This comes after former West Ham scout Mick Brown warned Football Insider that the Hammers should be cautious in their pursuit of Whittaker amid ongoing concerns.
Despite being just 25 years old, the winger has already had four permanent clubs alongside two loan spells, and has failed to establish himself fully.
Meanwhile, lingering concerns about his work rate and a belief that he can be selfish in his play has deterred offers from English clubs, and proved to be a boost to Colorado Rapids.