As well as finalising the terms of Alfie Jones proposed switch from Hull City, the Teessiders are also in advanced talks over a move for Kante.
The 20-year-old defensive midfielder is understood to have given the green light to a proposed move to Boro, with the French media reporting a likely fee of around €3m.
Senior Boro officials are now attempting to finalise the terms of his move from Troyes, with the framework of an agreement understood to be in place.
Born in the Ivory Coast, Kante developed in the youth ranks of French club Montfermil before joining Troyes’ youth set-up in the summer of 2022.
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He was rapidly fast-tracked into the Ligue 2 club’s senior set-up, and was a regular in Troyes’ first-team ranks last season as they finished tenth in the French second tier.
Kante has made 47 Ligue 2 appearances, scoring one goal, and also boasts five senior appearances in the Coupe de France.
He is an Ivorian Under-23 international, and will bolster Boro’s defensive-midfield ranks, which have been diminished following the departure of former club captain Jonny Howson.
Howson’s exit was confirmed earlier this week as he is set to take on a player-coach role with Leeds United Under-21s.
Boro, whose pre-season preparations will continue when they head to Ibrox on Saturday to take on Rangers, are also close to completing the signing of Jones from Hull.
The centre-half is moving to the Riverside for a total package worth around £3m, although it is understood Boro’s initial payment will be lower than that figure.