Middlesbrough are reportedly attempting to fend off interest in Ben Gibson from Chelsea and Everton.
According to The Mirror, Middlesbrough have slapped a £35m asking price on defender Ben Gibson to ward off interest from Premier League rivals Chelsea and Everton.
Boro have impressed defensively in their first season back in the Premier League, as Aitor Karanka’s men have conceded just 15 goals in 14 games; only three teams have conceded fewer.
The likes of Antonio Barragan and Arsenal loanee Calum Chambers have been big parts of that defence, but central defender Ben Gibson is the one grabbing the headlines.
Middlesbrough’s Ben Gibson applauds fans
Gibson, 23, was born in Middlesbrough and came up through the ranks with his hometown club, becoming a first-team regular during the 2013-14 season after spells on loan at Plymouth Argyle, York City and Tranmere Rovers.
Now, the 6ft 1in central defender has racked up more than 100 appearances for Boro, and his performances this season have put him in contention for a call-up to the England national team under former Boro boss Gareth Southgate.
Unsurprisingly, clubs are now keen to land Gibson. The Mirror report that both Chelsea and Everton are interested in signing Gibson, with both clubs seeking youth in defence.
Middlesbrough’s Ben Gibson celebrates scoring against Tottenham
Chelsea have converted to a back three under Antonio Conte, and with John Terry now 36, the Blues need to find a young defender who can take over from Terry – and Gibson fits the bill.
Meanwhile, Everton’s Phil Jagielka is now 34 and has looked poor this season, with 32-year-old Ashley Williams needing a younger partner alongside him, making it little surprise that Ronald Koeman would look at Gibson.
West Bromwich Albion’s Salomon Rondon in action with Middlesbrough’s Adam Clayton and Ben Gibson
However, it seems unlikely that either Chelsea or Everton will be able to prise Gibson away from the Riverside Stadium, as The Mirror claim that Middlesbrough have slapped a £35m asking price on their defender’s head.
Middlesbrough don’t want to lose Gibson under any circumstances during the January transfer window as they seek Premier League survival, and such a huge asking price looks set to ward of interest from Chelsea and Everton.
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