Liverpool will reportedly switch their focus to Middlesbrough defender Ben Gibson after pulling out of a bid to sign Virgil van Dijk.

Jurgen Klopp is back in the hunt to bolster his central defensive options and reports are claiming he will now step up his attempts to lure Gibson to Anfield.

Despite Boro's relegation back to the Championship after just one season, the 24-year-old was a stand-out performer for the club and his performances have resulted in him being called up to England boss Gareth Southgate's squad on two occasions.

Boro will want a minimum £20million fee before contemplating allowing a key asset to depart the Riverside Stadium, while new boss Garry Monk will no doubt do all he can to persuade the homegrown star to stay put and help the club push for an immediate return to the Premier League.

Source: ClubCall

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.