STOKE CITY have reportedly tabled a £12million bid for Middlesbrough’s Ben Gibson.
The 24-year-old shone for the Teessiders last season despite their relegation.
That form not only won him a first senior call-up to the England squad, but caught the attention of a number of Premier League sides.
Southampton emerged as the latest club to show an interest in the star last week.
However, The Times are now claiming that Stoke have stolen a march and made the first move for the centre-half.
New Boro boss Garry Monk is determined to try and convince the crowd-favourite to remain at the Riverside and help the club win an instant promotion.
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But with his recent inclusion in the Three Lions set-up, Gibson may feel that the opportunity to win a place in the World Cup squad is too good a chance to miss.
Boro could decide to cash in on the stopper – but they want a figure a lot closer to the £20m mark.
Chelsea, Leicester City and West Brom are also interested in signing the nephew of Boro owner Steve Gibson.
Ben Gibson factfile
- Ben Gibson was born in Nunthorpe, Middlesbrough on January 15 1993
- He is the nephew of Boro chairman Steve Gibson
- Gibson learnt his trade in the lower leagues with loan spells at Plymouth, York and Tranmere
- He made his Boro debut against Coventry in April 2011 and has played over 150 games since
- After losing in the play-off final the previous season, Gibson played a key role in helping Middlesbrough to win promotion from the Championship in 2016
- Gibson appeared in all 38 Premier League matches for Boro as they were relegated last season
- He has represented England at U17, U18, U20 and U21 level and received his first senior call-up in March
Gibson shot to prominence with a number of assured displays in his maiden top-flight campaign.
He figured in all 38 games for Boro and although they failed to beat the drop, he produced a number of impressive displays.
Stoke manager Mark Hughes is determined to shore up his defence after they conceded 56 goals last season and finished in a disappointing 13th place.
They have yet to sign Bruno Martins Indi on a permanent basis following a successful season-long loan from FC Porto.
Skipper Ryan Shawcross has now also entered the final 12 months of contract and as yet has not been offered an extension.
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