West Ham are in the hunt to sign Middlesbrough defender and vice-captain Ben Gibson, according to the Sun.
The newspaper claims that the Hammers have held a long-term interest in the enforcer alongside Leicester City and Everton.
It is understood that Premier League rivals Southampton are firmly in the running for his signature this summer and that a £20million bid is on the cards, but they will face “stiff competition” to land him.
The report details that Gibson’s exit from the Riverside Stadium is likely after Boro lost in the play-off semi-finals to Aston Villa and that the Championship outfit may cash in on him.
Good move for West Ham?
There is no question that West Ham need some more reinforcements at centre-back ahead of next season and Gibson is a highly-rated defender that ticks that box.
However, there have to be serious question marks over his potential cost and a near-£20million sum for the Englishman would be far too much.
He is a left-footed defender that is decent in possession, but has had blips over the 46-game Championship season just gone.
Gibson is good enough to make the step up to the Premier League for sure, but a huge eight-figure sum would be a risk and the Hammers should consider investing in a more proven talent.
Forever West Ham rating: 3/10
Likely to happen?
Gibson looks primed for a jump back to the Premier League over the summer and at one point was included in Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
West Ham are believed to be long-term admirers of the powerhouse, but seems like Southampton are the frontrunners are they prepare a big-money move to help vacate the spot that Virgil van Dijk left when he joined Liverpool back in January.
Forever West Ham rating: 4/10
