Leeds consider defender with 39 PL appearances after two White bids knocked back – report
Leeds United clearly need to strengthen in the heart of their defence this summer, with Liam Cooper the only fully-fit enforcer at Elland Road.
The Athletic’s Phil Hay reported on Saturday that Marcelo Bielsa only wants to bring in one defender this summer, with Ben White remaining a priority.
Sky Sports shared that the Whites have had two bids rejected by Brighton, with the defender also turning down a new contract at the AMEX.
Should Leeds fail with their attempts to bring White back to Elland Road, Victor Orta will need to start looking elsewhere to fill that gap.
The Daily Mail have claimed on their website that Leeds are considering a move for Arsenal defender Rob Holding.
Bielsa’s top priority remains White, but a move for Holding would certainly make sense as the club prepares for their Premier League return.
Holding offers great Premier League experience, making 39 top-flight appearances at Arsenal since moving their back in 2016 from Bolton.
The 24-year-old featured in the 2-1 win over Chelsea recently in the FA Cup final, with Mikel Arteta still not finding the right blend in defence since arriving.
No one has averaged more clearances per game in the Gunners squad according to WhoScored, and if cheap Holding could be the perfect partner for Liam Cooper at Elland Road next season.
This all depends on whether Leeds can secure White though, and with Bielsa only wanting one defender, their next bid for the Brighton man could be pivotal.
In other Leeds United news, Angus Kinnear has spoken out about the Whites’ shirt sponsorship and how much it could be worth