Southampton are a number of bookies favourites to land Middlesbrough centre-half Ben Gibson if he decides to leave the Riverside Stadium this summer.
It’s not the first time we have been linked with the player, but the speculation hasn’t had a lot of concrete information linked to it. The latest development really comes from the Northern Echo who suggest that Everton are now interested in his services after they ‘cooled’ their interest in Newcastle’s Jamaal Lascelles.
📝 Southampton are now 2/1 to sign Ben Gibson from Middlesbrough.
What are you thoughts on this potential signing? 💭 #Saintsfc #EPL pic.twitter.com/42A1fj5DI8
— talkSAINTS 🏴 (@talkSAINTS) June 12, 2018
Southampton are said to continue in pole position for the 25-year-old as manager Mark Hughes looks to strengthen the group and freshen things up after last season’s battle against relegation, and of course, defence is a go-to position for the club still following last January’s sale of Virgil van Dijk to Liverpool.
Whether Gibson would be a better fit for us compared to the Alfie Mawson speculation – covered the other week – is probably for each individual fan to answer, but the ongoing rumours don’t have many fans excited about the prospect.
No no no no and no!! Please no!
— Martin Ferguson (@MartFergie) June 12, 2018
I thought Everton were after Gibson? They'll pay far more than we will. #saintsfc
— SaintCirce (@SaintCirce) June 12, 2018
Not that exciting. We need a centre back with some pace and power, too similar to what we already have imo
— Charlie Mercer (@Charlie_Mercer_) June 12, 2018
ah, nothing like another rumor
— Dan (@Dan23SFC) June 12, 2018
Gibson does have some fans amongst the Saints though, as some feel he’s exactly what we need and they’ve urged the club to make good on the speculation.
I'll be happy if he can head the ball away in the 6 yard box!!
— Josh Richards (@JoshR1988) June 12, 2018
Get it done
— Sam (@Gibbo_Sam) June 12, 2018
Yes
— Matt Phillips (@matt_phillips19) June 12, 2018
Would be a very good signing for us. A commanding centre half is exactly what we need.
— Adam Baker (@adzbaker6) June 12, 2018
He has shown leadership qualities for boro something we lacked, also had a quality season in the prem. great signing
— Alan (@alanhenley) June 12, 2018
I can’t say I’m convinced from what I’ve seen of him, but I’ve never really watched closely and ultimately it’s in Hughes we trust.