Woodgate coy on Gibson transfer rumours

Middlesbrough manager Jonathan Woodgate has hinted that the club could make a transfer move for Burnley defender Ben Gibson.

Boro have experienced an injury crisis in defence this season.

To make matters worse, Dael Fry, Boro's only fit centre-back, came off injured in the 1-1 draw at home to Birmingham City with a suspected hamstring injury.

This leaves the club a short on centre-backs, with midfielders Jonny Howson and Paddy McNair, the only defensive options ahead of the clash with Blackburn Rovers in 10 days.

Boro are thought to be working on signing a defensive replacement before the end of the transfer window.

Former academy player Ben Gibson has been touted in recent days.

Gibson made a big-money move from Boro to Burnley two seasons ago but has failed to break into their first team. He has not featured in the Premier League for Burnley this season and is keen for first-team football.

When asked about a potential transfer for Gibson, Woodgate was coy and hinted that Gibson would be a good fit for the club.

"Ben Gibson's a good player, but there's an awful lot of good players in the league."

He, however, cast doubt on whether the player would be open to coming back to his childhood club.

"Would he be open to coming back? I'm not sure on that one. But he's a Boro lad isn't he?"

This transfer looks like one that could happen, as Gibson was recently seen at the training ground.