Watford are reportedly refusing to meet Arsenal’s valuation for Kieran Gibbs.
Marco Silva
Watford are one of the many clubs thought to be interested in Arsenal left-back Kieran Gibbs, who has been deemed surplus to requirements at the London club.
However, Arsenal’s £15 million asking price for the defender has forced them to shift attention to other left-backs.
According to reports from the Evening Standard, Watford have now turned their attention towards signing Middlesbrough’s defender George Friend.
The report claims that Boro are willing to do business for the defender at around £8 million. He would represent a much cheaper alternative to Gibbs.
Friend is now top of Watford’s shortlist, and although the club are yet to make a formal offer, the report states that the transfer is still being considered by senior figures at Vicarage Road.
Middlesbrough’s George Friend in action
The 29-year-old has been on Boro’s books since 2012. Primarily a left-back, he is capable of playing at centre-back as well, which adds an extra appeal for the new Watford boss, Marco Silva.
Gibbs has been made available for transfer, however his 80k-a-week wage demand is proving to be a big obstacle.
Watford’s Vicarage Road
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
