Chelsea transfer news: Ben Gibson ‘given £35million price tag by Middlesbrough’ in bid to fend off Blues interest

CHELSEA will need to stump up £35million to prise Ben Gibson away from Middlesbrough, according to reports.

The Blues are in the market for a new centre-back in January and Gibson has emerged as one of Antonio Conte’s top transfer targets.

PA:Press Association

But Boro are desperate to hold onto the 23-year-old and will not make it easy for Chelsea, reports the Mirror.

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Conte and his scouts have been tracking Gibson’s progress this season and have seen him shine on a number of occasions.

Everton are also believed to be keen on the Boro defender, who is contracted at the Riverside until 2021.

The Teesside club rate Gibson highly and would rather not cash in on the England hopeful as long-term Premier League survival is a more lucrative option.

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Boro are aware the demand for Gibson will only increase come the summer.

But the North East club also recognise English talent can be expensive.

John Stones’ £47.5m move to Manchester City from Everton in August is but one example.

AP:Associated Press

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Chelsea will give Conte a transfer warchest to spend in January to strengthen his squad.

Blues supremo Roman Abramovich has already entrusted the Italian coach to implement a 3-4-3 formation.

He recognises Conte wants to bring in his own specialist players in order to utilise Chelsea’s new playing style.