Middlesbrough refusing to budge on West Brom target Ben Gibson despite closing in on Birmingham City's Ryan Shotton
Middlesbrough continue to play hard-ball over Albion target Ben Gibson despite closing in on a deal for Birmingham City defender Ryan Shotton.
The Baggies are still interested in Gibson after having two club-record bids for the 24-year-old centre-back rejected, the second of which totalled £20million.
Shotton is expected to move to Boro for £2.5m rising to a possible £3.1m in the next 48 hours, but sources in the North East say the centre-back's arrival will not necessarily free Gibson up to leave.
If the Teesiders do decide to cash in on their prize asset, Albion could face competition from Southampton.
The Saints have reportedly eyed up the England international as a potential replacement for Virgil Van Dijk, who has handed in a transfer request to force through a move to Liverpool.
Southampton, who will be flush with cash if they sell Van Dijk, are believed to be willing to meet Boro's £30m asking price.
