Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is looking to add more depth for his back line ahead of next season. After failing to land Southampton centre-back Virgil van Dijk, the club are looking at numerous potential targets to bolster their central defense.
One of the major names that were linked with Reds is Middlesbrough’s Ben Gibson who has enjoyed a tremendous season in Premier League last season.
Despite Boro being relegated after finishing 19th last season, the 24-year old Ben had featured every minute of Premier League football last season making an impressive 41 appearances for Boro across all competitions.
With all the interest from the Reds, a big bid from Jurgen Klopp is expected in the upcoming weeks to make a swoop for Ben. However, Boro’s new manager Garry Monk has revealed that they will not be selling Ben to any club.
Monk believes that Ben Gibson is key to Middlesbrough to earn promotion for Premier League in their first attempt and is ready to block any bid for their top player.
‘Ben is one of a number of players here who are integral to the squad, integral to making that step back.’
‘Ben is obviously a big focal point the team. I’ve watched him over the last couple of seasons, and I’m well aware of him and what he can bring to the team.’
‘It’s important that you keep your best players, and important you’re able to keep a core together and give yourself the best possible opportunity of reaching the club’s ambition, which is to go back to the Premier League.’
‘Ben is a big part of that. Discussions will happen with players. It’s my job to sit with them, and show them the way forward.’
‘It’s important that we keep our best players, and the club are in agreement with that.’
Gibson was impressive in Premier League last season as he averaged 0.8 tackles per game, 1.5 interceptions and 6.2 clearances making him one of the best young defenders in the league.
Liverpool will need to make a massive money bid to lure Boro in selling their keys defender. Other potential signings include Stefan de Vrij, Kalidou Koulibaly and Michael Keane as the Reds push for a top class central defender this summer.