Middlesbrough will not sell Ben Gibson for less than £20m.
West Brom manager Tony Pulis
One of the major tasks for new Middlesbrough manager, Garry Monk, will be to solve the problem of defender Ben Gibson.
The club will try its best to keep him. However, Boro expect a bidding war for Gibson in the summer. According to reports from Express and Star, the Riverside club won’t entertain any opening offers below £20 million.
Middlesbrough’s Ben Gibson reacts
The report suggests that the North East side are resigned to losing their star defender. Therefore, Boro must try to get the best deal out of him.
Gibson, 24, is primarily a centre-back but can play at left-back as well. He was superb for Boro last season in the Premier League, and wants to return to the top tier.
West Bromwich Albion have been heavily linked with a move for Gibson, but the Baggies are expected to face a tough competition from other Premier League clubs including Arsenal and West Ham.
Middlesbrough’s Ben Gibson applauds fans after the game
The Express and Star claim that Gibson is West Brom’s top centre-back target this summer, but his price tag could be a problem.
Tony Pulis is looking for a long-term replacement for the 37-year-old Gareth McAuley, and Gibson fits the bill nicely.
Gibson is reportedly also on West Ham’s radar (The Evening Standard). The Hammers, who are seeking defensive reinforcements over the summer, are attracted by Gibson’s versatility, and could make a move for him as well.
Middlesbrough’s Ben Gibson in action with Arsenal’s Francis Coquelin
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