Burnley lodge bid for Everton target Ben Gibson

Burnley have made the first move in the race to sign reported Everton target Ben Gibson.

According to claims from Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, the Clarets have lodged an opening offer worth £12 million as they look to lure Gibson away from Middlesbrough.

Twitter: BREAKING: I understand Burnley have made a £12m bid for Middlesbrough defender Ben Gibson. (@SkySports_Keith)

Everton want to sign a new central defender and after being perennially linked with a move for Gibson, and it’s believed that he is among the options that the club are considering moving for this summer.

Having failed to secure promotion to the Premier League last season, Boro are faced with the prospect of losing Gibson before the campaign begins, with numerous clubs linked with the player.

Burnley have had a similarly quiet transfer window to Everton and it seems they are stepping up their recruitment efforts, with Gibson emerging as a key target.