These two are likely to clash again if the Reds defender stays in the Prem.
Martin Skrtel has had some good times at Anfield, but his Liverpool career is over.
The Slovakian centre-back, 31, is leaving the Reds this summer, despite having two years left to run on his contract.
Because of the duration of his current deal, Liverpool expect to recoup most of the £6.5m they paid Zenit for Skrtel back in 2008.
In fact, they could even make a modest profit on Skrtel, because Premier League new boys Middlesbrough are ready to share some of their new-found wealth.
It is understood that Boro – boasted by their £170m promotion – are readying a £7m bid for Skrtel, who is also wanted by Turkish giants Besiktas.
Skrtel is said to be happy in England, so the chance to remain in the Premier League with this season’s Championship winners could be too good to refuse.
Manager Aitor Karanka and chairman Steve Gibson want to add more top-flight experience to Boro’s squad and would be willing to make Skrtel the club’s top earner, ahead of Stewart Downing.
Skrtel made 320 first-team appearances for Liverpool, scoring 18 goals.
The only piece of team silverware he won with the Reds came in 2012 when he lifted the League Cup after scoring in the final against Cardiff.
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