A number of reports suggest that Antonio Conte is ready to dig into the transfer window yet again to fortify his backline. The former Juventus head coach, who prefers to tap over other leagues, has surprisingly turned his attention to Middlesbrough’s defender, Ben Gibson according to Daily Star.
The Blues, however, are no longer huffing and puffing to clinch a clean sheet, as they did in the opening matches of the season. Since shifting into a 3-4-3 formation, things are looking seriously good for Conte’s men. Six wins out of six and impressively not letting any goals in. This initially questioned system has carried further than even the Italian had imagined.
To deploy a back-three and ensure they stay focused and fit, week in week out, the 47-year old is keen to add more depth in the particular department. Ben Gibson may not be the fanciest name in the market but surely a reliable one. The 23-year old has seen series of loan spells before finally turning into an important cog in the Boro’s wheel.
If this report has caught you by surprise, to double it, Daily Mail claims that the Blues have already scouted the England international before.
Gibson has not missed any match for Middlesbrough this season. He has racked up 8 tackles, 16 interceptions, 63 clearances and 13 blocks, helping his side to secure 3 clean sheets so far. Among his best performances were against Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal, where he faced stiff-neck battles with several top strikers.
Expanding the talent pool of a club is a requirement for any manager but the process also involves showing the exit door to players who don’t fit the demand of the boss. Case in point is the Blues legend, John Terry who has only featured for 10 minutes in the last six matches that turned fortunes around for the team. At the age of 35, nearing the closing stage of his playing career, walking back into Conte’s good book is near impossible. Not forgetting, Kurt Zouma’s availability as he is nearing full fitness after being sidelined for 7 months.
Having splashed serious money for Marcos Alonso and David Luiz in summer, opting for bargain buy like Ben Gibson would be ideal. Speaking of inexpensive solutions, they were previously linked with a move for Burnley star Michael Keane as well. The management, however, after witnessing series of successful changes from their new caretaker, clearly recognizes his true potential and would be by his side to snap up any player he desires.
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