SOUTHAMPTON have become the latest club to be linked with a potential summer move for Ben Gibson.

The Saints are currently without a manager following the dismissal of Claude Puel, but are expected to sell Virgil van Dijk no matter who takes over at St Mary's.

Van Dijk's proposed move to Liverpool collapsed earlier this month, but the Dutchman is still set to leave the Saints for more than £40m this summer.

His departure would leave a gaping hole at the heart of the back four, with Southampton's recruitment team having identified Gibson as a potential replacement.

The Northern Echo:

They will face heavy competition for his services though, with Liverpool and Leicester City currently leading the race for the Teessider, who was an unused substitute in England's recent international matches against Scotland and France.

Garry Monk spelled out his desire to hold on to Gibson when he was formally unveiled as Middlesbrough's new manager on Monday, but Boro could find it hard to turn down a bid in excess of £30m following their relegation from the top-flight last season.

As reported in this week's Northern Echo, Monk's number one target in terms of incomings is Swansea centre-half Kyle Bartley, who played under the new Boro boss at Leeds United last term.

Meanwhile, Boro have unveiled their new white away kit for next season - with the shirt due to go on sale tomorrow.