Monk swoops for keeper Randolph

MIDDLESBROUGH have signed Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Darren Randolph on a four-year deal.

Boro have paid £5 million to West Ham for the 30-year-old.

“I am delighted to get it all signed and completed,” Randolph told his new club’s official website.

He recently saw Joe Hart arrive at the London Stadium, meaning he was likely to play second fiddle at best for the Hammers.

“I want to come here and get the club back to where it belongs and I want to be part of something special,” he added.

He becomes Garry Monk’s sixth signing as the new manager bids to take Boro back to the Premier League after relegation.

Jonny Howson, Cyrus Christie, Martin Braithwaite, Britt Assombalonga and Connor Roberts have already made the move.

Meanwhile, Derby County’s Darren Bent is likely to be out until around Christmas because after suffering a serious hamstring injury.

The former England forward suffered the injury in last week’s pre-season fixture against Port Vale.

Bent has scored 28 times in 84 Derby games.

Boss Gary Rowett told the club website: “He had looked sharp in the games so far but it’s something we will just have to deal with.”