The Premier League club are set to pay £6.5million for the Benin international in January, according to The Guardian.

The towering striker scored five goals in his debut campaign in the top-flight last season but has started just eight Championship games for Aston Villa this term.

His lack of game time is said to have attracted interest from league rivals Newcastle, who are keen on signing another striker after dropping to second in the table on Tuesday.

But Middlesbrough have reportedly convinced Gestede, 28, to reject a move to St James’ Park for the Riverside Stadium.

Gestede’s arrival is likely to lead to the departure of out-of-favour striker Jordan Rhodes, who is yet to score in his six appearances this season.