Southampton are reportedly lining up a summer deal for Middlesbrough central defender Ben Gibson.
According to claims from the Northern Echo, the Saints want to land Gibson as they aim to bolster their defensive reinforcements ahead of next season.
Mark Hughes is understood to be a big admirer of Gibson and his qualities, with the Welshman having made attempts to sign him from Boro whilst he was in charge of proceedings at Stoke City.
Hughes’ future is uncertain at St Mary’s with a permanent deal yet to be signed, however, it seems as though Gibson is certainly a target for Southampton.
Saints are yet to replace Virgil van Dijk following his January move to Liverpool and it’s thought that signing a new centre-back would be high up on the club’s to-do list this summer.
Gibson wanted to leave the Riverside Stadium following Boro’s relegation last season but was kept at the club due to his importance.
However, with Tony Pulis’ side failing to secure promotion back to the top-flight at the first time of asking this term, Gibson could well seek an exit from the club once again.
