Manchester City, Southampton and West Brom target Ben Gibson signs new Middlesbrough contract
Premier League clubs' hopes of landing the highly-rated star in January are dashed as the ace commits his future to Boro by penning a five-year extension
MIDDLESBROUGH star Ben Gibson has ended speculation over his future by signing a new five-year deal with the club.
The Teesside-born defender was one of the most highly-coveted men in last summer's transfer window after a fine campaign.
Despite Boro's relegation, the 24-year-old was the club's top performer and earned a first call-up to the England squad.
His displays made him a target for a number of sides with West Brom having several bids rejected for the centre-half.
Manchester City were also keen on Gibson along with Southampton.
But Boro helm firm and managed to keep hold of their talisman to lead their promotion push from the Championship.
And any worries over renewed interest from the top-flight in January has now been eased after he agreed to extend his stay at his hometown club.
He told MFC.co.uk: "I'm delighted to sign a new contract. Everyone knows what this club means to me.
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"I’ve grown up with the club, I went to the Riverside from a young age and remember all those special European nights.
"I’ve been lucky enough to go on and play for the club, and even the captain team, and I’ve had some amazing experiences here."
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Gibson has made clocked up nearly 200 appearances for Boro, with the latest coming in Saturday's 1-0 home defeat to Cardiff City.
Boro are facing a fight to return to the top tier at the first attempt after a stuttering start to the campaign under new boss Garry Monk.
They began the season as one of the favourites for promotion but currently sit 13th in the table, five points outside of the play-off spots.
Next up for Gibson and his team-mates is a trip to Reading on Saturday.
Boro were knocked out of the Carabao Cup in midweek after a 3-1 defeat at Bournemouth.
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