The 32-year-old midfielder wanted to speak to both Rangers and Celtic in January but was denied by Boro manager Gareth Southgate.

The Dutchman, who played under Celtic manager Gordon Strachan at Coventry, expects to leave the Riverside and told the Scottish Sun: "Before the transfer window opened five clubs were seriously interested in me. Two of the clubs were from Scotland and you can guess who they are. I am told both Glasgow clubs will come back for me this summer."

He added: "I wanted to talk to these clubs but Southgate didn't allow it. I am very unhappy about this.

"The situation is difficult but my time at Middlesbrough is at an end."