Middlesbrough boss Tony Pulis admits they could lose Ben Gibson in the coming week.

The defender is a target for Burnley.

Speaking to the press ahead of Boro's season opener, Pulis confirmed there had been contact with the Clarets.

"I'm not sure where the negotiations are with that one. The powers that be will discuss that," he said.

"If he has the chance to go to the Premier League, then that is brilliant for Ben. Everyone wants to play at the top level. He has to give it serious consideration. He might decide to stay and that would be brilliant for us.

"What has to happen is that this football club makes sure we get the best possible deal, and we're clever and organised enough to invest the money in players who can do a similar job or even better."