If Middlesbrough have fixed their problems up front, Ben Gibson’s potential stay in defence could inspire a fine season.
Middlesbrough have done some impressive business this summer as they look to seal an immediate return to the Premier League.
The Teesside club were relegated last season as they scored fewer goals than any other top flight side, but, after bringing in Garry Monk as manager, they have moved for Martin Braithwaite and Britt Assombalonga.
Having spent big on forwards, there could have been an assumption that Boro would have to sell for similarly lofty sums elsewhere – but that does not appear to be the case.
Having told Newcastle United that Adama Traore would only leave for an extortionate fee, according to the Daily Mail, Boro could now also keep star defender Ben Gibson.
The academy graduate earned an England call-up last season with his impressive performances, but the Birmingham Mail reports that Gibson – a target, they claim, of West Bromwich Albion – will sign a new contract at the Riverside and ply his trade in the Championship.
That is a brave move for a potential international – particularly in a World Cup year – but it offers a huge boost to Boro and their promotion bid.
Boro conceded less than ninth-placed Bournemouth in the Premier League last term, marshalled by Gibson, and if they can marry that defence with an attack inspired by Assombalonga, they have every chance of challenging for the title.
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