According to HITC, Garry Monk's Middlesbrough are eyeing a move for Birmingham City centre-half Ryan Shotton. 

Former centre-half Monk has reportedly identified Shotton as a target to add to his defensive ranks following the departure of Bernardo Espinoza, the long-standing injury problems of Daniel Ayala and reported speculation over the future of Ben Gibson.

The 28-year-old made 45 appearances in all competitions for the Blues last season, impressing with his physicality and aerial prowess, even as Birmingham struggled under Gianfranco Zola before escaping relegation on the final day of the season under current manager Harry Redknapp.

Shotton is an experienced campaigner in the second tier, with 122 Championship appearances to his name across spells with Stoke City, Barnsley, Wigan Athletic, Derby County and Birmingham City, scoring six goals in the process.

As Monk seeks to put together a side capable of returning to the top flight, he would be adding Premier League experience if he did land Shotton, as the 28-year-old has played 48 times in the top division, netting once, during his time at Stoke City, with his long throw a weapon that Tony Pulis was especially keen to use.

Shotton has two years left to run on his contract at St Andrew's and Redknapp would surely be unwilling to see a key player from last season depart to divisional rivals without a substantial fee changing hands.

Boro fans - what do you make of Shotton? Is he better than what you already have? Let us know in the comments below...