Middlesbrough complete Aidan Morris transfer as third summer signing arrives from Columbus Crew

Middlesbrough have completed the signing of Aidan Morris from Columbus Crew as the midfielder became their third summer signing.

Morris, 22, signs a four-year contract at the Riverside after a fee believed to be just over £3 million was agreed with the MLS outfit earlier this month. The USA international arrived on Teesside earlier in the week to finalise the move after playing his final game for the Crew on Saturday night.

He joins Boro after the club watched him for over 18 months, with real hope that he can be a major force in the Championship once he gets up to speed. Despite being just 22, he already has over 100 senior appearances on his CV and helped Columbus win two MLS Cups after graduating from their academy.

READ MORE: Aidan Morris details 'special' Michael Carrick conversation ahead of Middlesbrough move

On the signing, head coach Michael Carrick said: “We're delighted to welcome Aidan to the club. He's a good player. He suits our style of play, he's strong, he likes to get on the ball, and he plays off both feet. He's a good age, but he's already had a taste of success and he has a good amount of experience. We're excited to work with him."

Morris is seen as a rising star in the USA and has long-held desires to play in England. Speaking before his Boro move was confirmed, he noted his motivation to better himself and also Carrick as factors behind why he chose the Riverside.

He told NBC Columbus: "I had a phone call with Michael Carrick and he was a person I looked up to when growing up. To have a phone call with that guy was special. He gave me his pitch and told me what Middlesbrough was all about and told me all about the time. It seemed like the right step to take for my career.

"At the end of the day, I know I'm prepared but I'm going in there with a lot of unknowns. I don't really know how it's going to be - the speed of play and everything like that. I know it's going to be faster probably. I'm taking a leap of faith because people who know me know I'm always looking to challenge myself and be better."

For Boro, the deal means they have now completed three of their four summer priorities long before they start their pre-season friendly campaign, allowing for plenty of time for the new boys to bed in. As well as Morris, Boro have added a versatile forward in Delano Burgzorg, while Luke Ayling has made his Boro move a permanent one after impressing during a six-month loan spell last term.