Arsenal could make another bid for Brighton and England defender Ben White. Interest has grown in White’s signature this summer after a strong showing in his first full Premier League season and his call-up to the England national team.
As per Sky Sports, the Seagulls have already rejected two bids made by the Gunners, but the North London club are expected to make another approach for Ben White. The last bid for the Brighton centre-back was for a fee of £45 million plus £5 million in add-ons. The 23-year-old has three years remaining on his current deal with Brighton.
White was a part of the England set-up at Euro 2020, having been called up to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold before the start of the showpiece event.
Moving for Ben White: Right decision by Arteta?
Ben White has garnered a lot of interest after his debut Premier League campaign last season. The Englishman had impressed in the 2019-20 season for Leeds United in the Championship and Marcelo Bielsa wanted him on a permanent deal. White, though, stayed at Brighton and played 36 times in the Premier League last season.
White has been commended for his ability on the ball, his passing, as well as his quickness and ability to sense danger. The 23-year-old is a modern centre-back, capable – and confident – of bringing the ball out from the back and initiating attacks.
Defensively, he finds himself in the right place to nullify attacks and uses his pace to stop opposition attackers. White is capable of playing as part of a back three or back four and has played as a defensive midfielder and right-back, apart from his natural centre-back position.
Arsenal need a player like Ben White, who is quick, decisive, and is not wasteful with his passing. The Gunners could benefit offensively and defensively with White. Manager Mikel Arteta could employ a three-man defence and add width with wing-backs, while also allowing White the freedom to move forward with the ball.
The Brighton defender possesses the ability and potential to become a good Premier League player, and has shown that for England too. But Mikel Arteta and his staff should ensure that he is not overawed by his price tag and be ready to be criticized by pundits and fans if he doesn’t deliver right away. White has just one year of experience at the top level and should be given time to settle into his new team if he does sign for Arsenal, who are not in the best of conditions right now themselves.
This could be a good signing for Arsenal and it seems like the Gunners could be close to sealing the deal as the report stated that Brighton will not stand in the way of White leaving if the right offer comes in.
