It is claimed that Middlesbrough could cash in on Gibson, who is a long-term target for Southampton and Mark Hughes.
Southampton are ‘set to make’ a £20 million move for Middlesbrough’s Ben Gibson, according to the Sun.
It follows Middlesbrough’s failure to gain promotion back to the Premier League, where Gibson previously impressed for his hometown club.
The Sun reports that Gibson, who earned England recognition last season, was among Mark Hughes’ targets at Stoke City ahead of the campaign.
And fellow long-term admirers Southampton are again said to be chasing the 25-year-old, despite the uncertainty over Hughes’ future at St Mary’s.
The Welshman’s contract expires this summer and it is claimed that he remains in negotiations to extend his Saints stay, having steered the south coast club to safety this past season.
Southampton could face competition for Gibson, however, with West Ham United, Leicester City and Everton all holding long-term interest, according to the Sun.
The report adds that Southampton are also keen on Swansea City’s Alfie Mawson, having sold Virgil van Dijk to Liverpool in January.
It is claimed that Middlesbrough, who are owned by Gibson’s uncle, Steve Gibson, could cash in to fund a summer rebuild.
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