According to The Mirror's Live Transfer Blog [Tuesday 19th June, 20:06], Middlesbrough are ready to launch a £5m bid for Bristol City defender Aden Flint.

Towering centre-half Flint has been identified as a top target by Tony Pulis, who could be preparing for a possible Ben Gibson departure.

Gibson is attracting attention from the Premier League following Boro's failure to win promotion via the play-offs and they could be in the market to find his successor.

Flint has plenty of experience at Championship level and Bristol City face a battle to keep him this summer with interest from other clubs mounting.

The 28-year-old left Swindon Town to join the Robins in 2013, helping them to promotion from League One and playing a key role in their Championship campaigns since.

With nearly 250 games for Bristol City under his belt, he is well liked by the fans and rated highly by the club.

But Middlesbrough are plotting to test Bristol City's resolve to sign the physical centre-back and they are expected to submit a £5m bid for his services shortly.

Boro face competition from Premier League new boys Fulham for Flint, who recently signed a new contract extension to keep him at Ashton Gate until 2021.

The Verdict

Flint would be an excellent addition at Championship level.

Standing at 6ft 6in tall, the man mountain is a rock at the back, winning everything in the air and comfortable on the ground as well - the perfect experienced man to have in the Championship.

Plus, with 39 goals in five years for Bristol City, he has an extremely impressive goal scoring record for a defender and is a constant threat from set plays.

Boro fans - Would you like to sign Flint? Let us know below...