The 23-year-old has been in inspired form for Middlesbrough, in the heart of one of the league’s most consistent defences.
The current campaign is Phil Jagielka’s tenth as an Everton player. And while the 2016/17 season has further highlighted the fact that, at 34, his years at the top level are winding down, the decision to bring him to Merseyside from relegated Sheffield United in 2007 is a definite contender for the club’s signing of the century.
And, in a rather poetic progression, his long term replacement in the Everton backline could emerge from similarly unassuming surroundings.
According to the Daily Mirror, The Toffees have identified Middlesbrough stalwart Ben Gibson as the perfect alternative for Southampton’s in-demand and monstrously costly Virgil Van Dyke.
The 23-year-old, who has been in solid form for Aitor Karanka’s side throughout the current campaign, has adapted to the top flight with ease, his pace and positioning helping fortify the Premier League’s fourth best defensive record this season.
And there’s something very similar between Gibson’s potential arrival and Jagielka’s 2007 signing. Both are uncapped English defenders in their first season higher than Championship level, performing above expectations in a newly promoted side that relies heavily on their consistency and leadership.
Though Gibson’s price tag will undoubtedly dwarf Jagielka’s modest £4 million, per the BBC, Everton will certainly be getting value for money if Middlesbrough’s stand-in captain replicates the 40-time England international’s long-serving influence at Goodison Park.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
