According to the Times, Stoke City have made the first move to sign Middlesbrough’s Ben Gibson this summer, making an initial bid of £12m.

Gibson was part of the Boro squad that suffered relegation from the top-flight last season, but the defender is set to receive interest from top-flight clubs this summer after an impressive individual campaign.

The central defender has recently earned a call-up to the England senior squad, and Garry Monk, Boro’s manager, is hoping to retain his service over the summer, with hope he can lead the club to an instant return to the Premier League.

Gibson has three-years remaining on his contract at the Riverside Stadium, and has loyalties to his boyhood club, who are owned by his uncle, Steve Gibson.

However, with the potential of a call-up to the England squad for the World Cup in Russia next year, Gibson may have to turn his back on Boro and return to the Premier League, which has put a number of clubs on alert.

Stoke have made the initial bid, according to reports, whilst Leicester City and West Bromwich Albion are also interested.

The 24-year old defender featured in all 38 of Boro’s Premier League fixtures last season, chipping in with one goal.

Boro fans… Are you expecting Gibson to leave your club this summer, or will his Uncle block a move back to the Premier League? Let us know your thoughts!