There has been hesitation on Teesside in this summer transfer window, with boss Garry Monk spending big and utilising parachute payments effectively as he looks to guide his side back to the fortunes of the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Plenty of cash has been spent on assembling a new strike force, with Britt Assombalonga and Martin Braithwaite joining in big money deals, and now Monk is turning to his defensive unit as he looks to bolster his squad for what it set to be a long and arduous season.

Fending off Premier League interest for Ben Gibson has been a constant theme of Monk’s summer, and the former Leeds manager is looking to provide insurance should he lose the player by swooping for Birmingham man, Ryan Shotton.

The 28-year-old only signed for the Blues last year, but could be on the move again if Middlesbrough meet his side’s demands in the coming days.

Shotton impressed at the heart of the second city side’s defense last semester as the club narrowly avoided relegation, and a switch to a club guaranteed to be competing for the title will be a move that strongly appeals to the player.

Monk will know the importance of putting together a squad with second tier experience, and Shotton boasts this in abundance.

The player may not be the big name Boro fans have become accustomed to this signing, but the addition of a player of Championship experience and ilk could be an astute piece of business as the Teessiders look for an instant return to the top flight.

Would Shotton be a solid member to your title charge, Boro fans?