According to reports, West Bromwich Albion are in the line to sign Middlesbrough defender Ben Gibson. The Teesiders got relegated in the just concluded season after a disastrous outing. Gibson had an excellent time as he was involved in every minute of Middlesbrough’s Premier League campaign. He has emerged as one of the potential hotshot defenders who has been linked with a number of clubs for a move in the transfer window
Boro will find it hard to keep him at the club following their drop to the second tier. Gibson was one of the players were the standout performers in a season where nothing seemed to have gone right. The Teesiders club just earned the promotion last season after a very spirited performance in the Championship but now will go back to the English second tier.
The 24-year-old who just earned his maiden English call up in March has a price tag of £20m and West Bromwich Albion will happily invest that amount of money on him. The Baggies have had an outstanding season but faltered at the last moment as they had a disappointing finish.
Tony Pulis has a pretty ageing defence with the likes of Gareth McAuley, who are in their twilight of the career. Pulis needs to inject some fresh blood to the side as they go on to the summer with a proper intent.
Gibson happens to be the nephew of club owner Steve Gibson who is working very hard to keep him at the club. He believes that the player is the ideal to lead his side who will be starting their Championship campaign next season in a bid to regain promotion to the Premier League. The 24-year-old has to carry on his trade at the English top tier to keep him updated in the eyes of Gareth Southgate. Despite his uncle’s recent stand over his transfer, he expressed his desire to be in the top flight for another season.
Gibson is expected to stay at the Teeside to lead their promotional campaign but there might be a little bit of concern as his England career has just taken off and playing in the second tier will be a step down for him. However having been with the club since 2009 an emotional factor will play into Boro’s hands but can they resist a big money move for him? Only time will tell
