Premier League side Southampton are not interested in signing Middlesbrough defender Ben Gibson, according to a report on the Daily Echo.
The Boro centre-back was reportedly being monitored by the Saints, who are eager to strengthen their defensive unit ahead of the new season.
However, Saints’ boss Mark Hughes has not identified Gibson as a realistic target for his side at the moment.
They could revisit a potential deal for the 25-year-old later on in the summer if Hughes can’t secure any of his other primary targets.
Southampton’s summer business has got off to a fine start after signing Stuart Armstrong and Mohamed Elyounoussi to boost their squad.
The Middlesbrough captain played 47 times in the Championship last season and is open to making a move to the Premier League, where he believes he is capable of playing.
Hughes’ primary centre-back targets seem to be Jannik Vestergaard and Barcelona’s Marlon Santos at the moment but if he fails to sign either, then the door could be open for Gibson to move to the St Mary’s.
