Everton are launching a bid for Middlesbrough defender Ben Gibson.

The Northern Echo says Everton will turn to Gibson after refusing to enter a bidding war for Newcastle's Jamaal Lascelles.

New Toffees manager Marco Silva desperately wants defensive reinforcements and had identified the Toon captain as his No1 target.

But he is now ready to switch his attention to Boro's £20million-rated centre-half.

Everton have registered their interest in 24-year-old Lascelles, but Newcastle chiefs are reluctant to sell and will demand at least £30m for the star.

However, Chelsea and Tottenham are also keen and the Premier League powerhouses interest is believed to have convinced St. James' Park officials they will receive a much higher figure if they do decide to let him depart.