‘As far as Brighton are concerned’ – South coast journalist details 20/21 plans for Ben White
Ben White has been a revelation for Leeds United this season.
Calm and composed on the ball, his range of passing is superb and he’s slotted into Marcelo Bielsa’s system perfectly.
Leeds fans want to sign him on a permanent deal in the summer but that is going to be far from straightforward.
The Athletic’s Brighton journalist Andy Naylor has said that White is very much seen as a big part of Graham Potter’s side next season.
Writing in the Athletic Naylor said, “The Championship promotion-contenders [Leeds] would enter calculations… in terms of a permanent move.
“As far as Brighton are concerned however, the only destination in mind for the 22-year-old is the heart of Graham Potter’s back line in 2020-21 — sometimes in a pair, on other occasions in a trio.
“White will fit snugly into Potter’s passing philosophy and tactical tinkering. The Brighton manager likes central defenders who are comfortable in possession, able to carry the ball forward and adaptable.”
That’s bad news for Leeds, who might lose White even if they get promoted.
One chance of keeping hold of White would come if Brighton were relegated this season.
They’re currently just two points above the trapdoor in the Premier League, although there are worse teams below them.
Even if that happens, though, Leeds would have a battle on their hands with Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea and Wolves all reportedly interested in White.
Leeds didn’t secure an option to buy as part of the White deal and that leaves the fate of the player out of their hands.
MOT Leeds News columnist Paul Robinson has told us that White has been “the player of the season” and said the real problem for Leeds would be holding onto him past the summer.
That looks set to be the case and if he does return to Brighton, Leeds will need to replace him with a clone over the summer.
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