According to the Independent, Manchester City are considering a £20m bid for Ben Gibson, with the Middlesbrough defender a target for the Premier League outfit.

Pep Guardiola’s side have been exploring the possibility of signing Jonny Evans from West Bromwich Albion, but are becoming frustrated in that particular quest and are considering a £20m move for Gibson.

Boro have already rejected West Brom’s approach to sign Gibson this summer, with the defender starting all four Sky Bet Championship fixtures under Garry Monk this season.

Gibson has helped Boro to two victories from their opening four fixtures, as the Teessiders readjust with life back in the second-tier following their relegation from the Premier League at the conclusion of the 2016/17 season.

Gibson was one of Boro’s bright sparks in the top-flight last year, with the defender featuring in every Premier League fixture, but unable to prevent his boyhood club eventually suffering relegation.

The 24-year-old also earned a first call up to the England senior squad earlier in 2017, after his performances impressed Gareth Southgate.

Chelsea are also interested in signing Gibson, but City look set to test Boro with a serious offer for the defender, having become frustrated in their attempts to sign other targets.

The Verdict

Boro have so far done well to resist any temptation to sell Gibson this summer, but a bid from Man City – an established top-six side – will surely test both the club and player.

Gibson’s chance of making Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the World Cup next summer, would receive a huge boost if he moved to City.

The 24-year-old has been a good servant to Boro, but if the opportunity comes for him to move to the Etihad Stadium, it would be hard to stand in his way.

Middlesbrough fans… Let us know your thoughts!