Middlesbrough to loan Hibs midfielder Merouane Zemmama

Last updated : 28 January 2011 By Steve Forbes

Middlesbrough have today been linked with a move for Hibs Moroccan midfielder Merouane Zemmama.

The 27-year-old has just returned to first team action following a cruciate ligament injury, and is trying to regain his fitness.

Zemmama, 27, was reported to be down in the north east this afternoon, having discussions about a possible loan move to the English Championship side.

Boro boss, and former Hibs manager Tony Mowbray was the man who brought Zemmama to Easter Road in 2007, and seems keen to take the player to the Riverside.

“Zouma” has played over 80 games for the Hibees during his stay, scoring 11 goals.

The little magician also spent a year away from Easter Road on loan with UAE side Al Shaab, following his wife and child being refused entry to the UK.

Hibs spent the year he was away, working on appeal to allow his young family into the country, which was eventually successful.

It remains to be seen whether Hibs boss Colin Calderwood will allow Zemmama to leave as the Hibees struggle at the wrong end of the SPL table.

However, rumours circulating in the North East possibly have former Dundee Utd midfielder Willo Flood heading in the opposite direction, which would be an excellent addition for the Hibees, should it come to fruition.