Manchester City are reportedly considering a summer deal for Middlesbrough centre-back Ben Gibson as Pep Guardiola aims to strengthen back line
According to a report by Daily Mail, Ben Gibson has been on Manchester City’s radar for a while now and the club are considering making an offer for the talented defender. Gibson is also being targeted by Arsenal and Chelsea but they have not made any moves so far, which leaves a nice window of opportunity for City.
Gibson made his way through the ranks at Middlesbrough after spending several seasons out on loan at lower league clubs. It was in 2013 when he finally managed to break into his boyhood club’s first-team set up, and there has been no looking back for him ever since.
The 24-year-old was particularly impressive last season at the heart of the Boro defence despite relegation. The fact that they were relegated did not seem to hamper Gibson’s spirits as they were one of the most solid defensive units in the English top flight for a good majority of last season.
It only goes to show how much he has developed as a player. Gibson is now a mainstay at the back for the club and is often regarded as the most influential player for Middlesbrough.
Gibson’s performance’s for the club earned him his first England call-up, while attracting the attention of big clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City.
Guardiola has had to face defensive troubles of his own as far as the City back line is concerned. It is not easy playing under Guardiola and that is something John Stones has realized. The player seems to be struggling a bit to settle in as the manager seeks a partner for him.
If Guardiola signs Gibson, the biggest advantage would be the fact that the highly-rated defender is well-acquainted with the demands and rigours of Premier League football. Additionally, Gibson can slot right in with Guardiola’s plans, since he will be used to playing possession-based football at Boro.
Since Chelsea and Arsenal have not made a move so far, it seems like this is the right time for Guardiola to make an offer. Guardiola is in need of a strong centre-back and Gibson has been identified as a solution to their defensive woes.
