Sunderland Transfers: 5 Defenders Dick Advocaat Could Sign Today

5. Ben Gibson (Middlesbrough)

Middlesbrough enjoyed an unbelievable defensive campaign last season, conceding the fewest goals in the Championship with a miserly 37. That's eight fewer than their closest rivals, eventual league winners Bournemouth. A major reason for such consistent solidity was the rise of young Ben Gibson, a 22 year old product of the Boro youth academy. Gibson has proven himself a mainstay in the heart of the Reds' defence, making 41 total appearances last year en route to playoff heartbreak at Wembley. Although a key player Middlesbrough would certainly like to keep on Teesside, his head could be turned by the prospect of a move to the Premier League. Sunderland fans would certainly welcome his youth, with O'Shea, Brown and Kaboul hardly the youngest centre backs in the league.