Updated at 20.08

MIDDLESBROUGH HAVE signed forward Alex Gilbert on a four-year deal following his departure from Brentford.

The 21-year-old’s contract with the Bees had expired and he declined fresh terms, with a number of clubs said to be vying for his signature.

Republic of Ireland U21 international Gilbert captained Brentford’s B team last season, scoring 16 goals and providing eight assists.

The Birmingham-born player also spent time on loan at Swindon Town during the 2021-22 season, making eight appearances in League Two.

Meanwhile, Burnley forward Michael Obafemi will miss the start of the Premier League season with a hamstring injury suffered while on international duty.

The 22-year-old tore his hamstring in Ireland’s 3-0 win over Gibraltar and will undergo an operation later this week before beginning a rehabilitation process.

Obafemi joined the Clarets on loan from Swansea in January, and scored two goals in 14 appearances before making his move permanent earlier this month.

The injury will be a blow to Vincent Kompany’s attacking options as Burnley make their return to the Premier League.

The Clarets reportedly remain in talks to re-sign Nathan Tella from Southampton after he topped Burnley’s scoring charts with 19 goals last term.

Ireland play two European qualifiers in September, with Stephen Kenny’s side taking on France in Paris on 7 September before welcoming the Netherlands to Dublin three days later.