Middlesbrough beat West Brom for the signature of ‘extraordinary’ Southampton 47 goals ace

Middlesbrough have secured a significant boost to their promotion push after beating Championship rivals West Bromwich Albion to the signing of Chilean international forward Ben Brereton Díaz. The move, reported by the Yorkshire Post via SportsBoom, sees Michael Carrick’s side add an “extraordinary” talent with proven pedigree in English football.

Brereton Díaz has long been admired in the Championship, particularly for his time at Blackburn Rovers where he truly came of age as a reliable goal scorer and hard-working forward. During his spell at Ewood Park, the striker netted an impressive 47 goals in 176 appearances, a return that established him as one of the most effective front men in the division. His performances caught the eye not only of rival clubs but also at international level, where he became a key figure for Chile.

Since leaving Blackburn, however, Brereton Díaz has endured a more challenging period. A move to Villarreal in Spain did not yield the level of consistency expected, with the striker registering just 10 goals across 68 appearances in spells with Villarreal, Southampton, and Sheffield United. Despite those struggles, his talent and tireless work ethic remain unquestionable, and Middlesbrough believe he can rediscover his best form at the Riverside.

The forward spent the second half of last season on loan at Sheffield United, gaining valuable experience in the Premier League despite playing in a team battling against relegation. While goals were limited, he demonstrated glimpses of his qualities, particularly his pressing ability, physicality, and willingness to put in a shift for the team.

One of the most notable voices to praise Brereton Díaz in recent years has been Tony Mowbray, the manager who oversaw his development at Blackburn Rovers. Mowbray frequently lauded the striker’s all-round contribution, highlighting that his game went far beyond just scoring goals. Speaking previously to FourFourTwo, Mowbray said:

“The starting point is his work rate. Strikers obviously always get the glory of scoring goals, but he’s a kid who works his socks off for this team, up and down, up and down.”

That relentless commitment is precisely what Middlesbrough will be hoping to harness as they look to mount a serious promotion challenge this season. Carrick’s side narrowly missed out on a play-off spot last year and have been determined to strengthen their attacking options to ensure they remain competitive in a fiercely contested Championship.

West Brom had also been strongly linked with the Chilean international, but Middlesbrough’s ambition and project appear to have tipped the balance in their favour. For Brereton Díaz, the move represents a chance to reignite his career in a league where he has already proven himself to be a difference-maker.

If he can replicate his Blackburn form and bring goals back to his game, Middlesbrough will have landed a signing that could transform their attacking fortunes. With his experience, international pedigree, and work ethic, the club will hope that Brereton Díaz proves to be the catalyst for a successful push towards the Premier League.