Report: Second Arsenal bid for Ben White is imminent

Thu 17 June 2021 14:30, UK

Arsenal are preparing to make an imminent second bid for Brighton and Hove Albion defender Ben White,

The Gunners saw an initial £40 million bid rejected by the Seagulls, who hope to recoup £50 million for their academy graduate.

It is claimed that Arsenal will test the water with a compromise of £45 million first though as they look to get the very best deal.

White came of age during 2020/21. He featured 39 times for the Seagulls, kicking on after a solid loan spell at Leeds.

The 23-year is currently in the England squad at Euro 2020. He was named as the late call-up following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s withdrawal.

White typically operates as a central defender, although he can play in a holding midfield role.

The youngster learned his trade in the EFL. Spells with Newport and under Marcelo Bielsa at Leeds proved extremely fruitful.

It’s though that the Elland Road club were keen to sign him permanently. Graeme Potter, however, had other ideas.

Arsenal will go in search of new players this summer. Defensively they were poor on occasions last season and targeting a centre-back is no surprise.

Gabriel was good last season but doubts do remain over Rob Holding, especially if Arsenal are serious about progression next season.

The Gunners will hope their latest bid is accepted and a deal can be done for White.

Future star: White could be shrewd for Arsenal

The youngster is exactly the sort of player the club should be going after and he could thrive at a bigger club.

The White is a superb ball-playing centre-back and he’d bring some composure to the Arsenal back-line.

The Gunners have occasionally been calamitous at the back and that has to change if they are to start climbing the Premier League.

As an Englisman, White won’t come cheap but he could be exactly the player Arsenal need to land during the summer transfer window.