Stoke make £12m move for Middlesbrough ace

 

Stoke have made a £12m move for Middlesbrough defender Ben Gibson but the Championship side are holding out for in excess of £20m, reports The Daily Mirror.

 

Gibson, who earned his first England call-up last season, has been targeted by a number of Premier League clubs since Boro were relegated to the Championship but all have been left frustrated by their valuation.

 

Stoke still haven’t made Bruno Martins Indi’s stay at the club permanent and manager Mark Hughes is keen to bolster his defensive options with uncertainly regarding Ryan Shawcross’ long-term future.

 

Stoke make £12m move for Middlesbrough ace

 

However, the Potters can expect some resistance from Middlesbrough, who will feel Stoke's offer is far too low to even be considered even if their bargaining power has taken a hit since being relegated.

 

Gibson was one of just three outfielders that played in every minute of Premier League action last season (3420 minutes).

 

For more stats on Ben Gibson, click here to visit his WhoScored player page