How likely is a Chelsea move for Middlesbrough captain Ben Gibson?

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Chelsea are lining up a move for Middlesbrough captain Ben Gibson, according to The Mirror. The Blues see the 23-year-old as a long term replacement for John Terry, who is set to leave the club when his contract ends at the end of the season. It is important that Chelsea find another Englishman to replace their captain as they need to maintain their home-grown quota. That isn’t to say that Gibson is being targeted for only registration purposes. He is one of the brightest prospects in the Premier League at the moment and there are other clubs interested aside from Chelsea.

What would he bring to Chelsea?

At the age of 23, Gibson is competing well in the Premier League and shown himself to be able to adapt quickly after Middlesbrough’s promotion. He is already a good Premier League centre back, but there is room to improve further in the future. Gibson is very much a modern day centre back, capable of launching attacks from deep as well as being a rock defensively. This is reflected by his pass success rate of 85.4% and he would suit Chelsea’s three-man defence as he can contribute in possession. As expected from a centre back, Gibson competes well in the air as shown by his average of 1.4 aerial duels per game.

His reading of the game is superb and he has leadership qualities, which is one of the reasons why he has been identified as a possible replacement for John Terry. Gibson has an impressive disciplinary record, receiving only two yellow cards this season. Although there is a lot for Gibson to learn before he can compete at the highest level, it would be a good signing for Chelsea. Antonio Conte is one of the best defensive coaches in the game and he would be able to mould Gibson in his image. The problem with John Terry has been that he isn’t suited to a three-man defence, but Gibson would be. He would need time to settle and adapt, but he has the potential to be an excellent centre back.

How likely is it?

Chelsea have already had an approach turned down and the report suggests that it could take an offer in excess of £30 million to tempt Middlesbrough to sign. He is a local boy, who is the nephew of Steve Gibson, the chairman of Middlesbrough, and that will make the deal even more difficult to do, as they won’t be keen sellers. They recognise Gibson’s value as one of the best young English centre backs and will make sure they get as much as they can for him.

It won’t be one for this month as Boro will need Gibson as they attempt to consolidate themselves in the Premier League. However, in the summer he would be attainable if Chelsea put their money where their mouth is. Middlesbrough probably realise that they will need to sell him at some point to allow him to reach his full potential. This is certainly one to follow over the coming months. It could be similar to the John Stones to Manchester City transfer that happened last place. I would expect a lot of brinkmanship, but it does seem very possible that it happens.

7/10 – It won’t happen in January, but is a real possibility for the summer.

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