Middlesbrough defender Ben Gibson has reportedly been earmarked as the man West Bromwich Albion want to replace Jonny Evans should the Northern Irishman depart in January.

Evans is understood to be on the radar of numerous Premier League clubs, including former side Manchester United and runaway leaders Manchester City.

West Brom are willing to let the 29-year-old leave if his £30m valuation is met and, according to the Birmingham Mail, preparations are already in place to quickly reinvest that money back into the squad.

Boro centre-back Gibson, who impressed in the top flight last season, is said to have been assessed by Baggies boss Alan Pardew and his recruitment team as part of the contingency plan.

However, the same report suggests that Albion may struggle to land the England international, having had a couple of bids in the region of £20m knocked back in the summer.