Middlesbrough have completed the signing of Darragh Lenihan on a free transfer, with the defender signing a long-term contract with the club. The Republic of Ireland international completes his move to Teesside after turning down a new deal at Blackburn this summer.

Centre-back Lenihan, 28, has signed a four-year contract at Middlesbrough which runs until the summer of 2026. Wilder is a long-time admirer of Lenihan's having tried to sign him while in charge at Sheffield United and believes he will bring much-needed leadership and character to the Boro squad.

Lenihan's move was to Boro was completed after he finished his international duties with Ireland last week as he arrived at Rockliffe to complete his medical and finalise the details of the transfer. As well as Blackburn, he had plenty of other Championship interest but chose Boro as his next club and becomes the third summer signing for Wilder.

READ MORE:Middlesbrough complete Ryan Giles loan deal from Wolves after impressive season

The Boro boss said: “I've been a huge admirer of Darragh for a long time, in terms of his qualities he brings as a player, as a person, as a competitor, as a warrior, and a leader of men. I'm putting a bit on him but I know he can handle it. He's a proper football player and I'm delighted.”

Lenihan's recent international involvement saw him earn his first cap for four years - that a reward for his fine form as captain of Tony Mowbray's Blackburn. The 28-year-old has been at Ewood Park since joining their academy in 2011 from Belvedere. He made over 200 appearances for the Lancashire outfit with his only other senior games coming during a loan spell with Burton Albion back in 2014.

With a wealth of Championship experience and leadership qualities, Wilder is hopeful the centre-back can help bolster his defensive options and help build the winning culture and mentality at the football club ahead of what he hopes will be a promotion-challenging season at the Riverside.

READ NEXT