MANCHESTER UNITED and Manchester City in transfer hunt for Brighton centre-back Ben White after his impressive loan spell with Leeds United.
White, 22, has been in scintillating form in the Championship, playing in all 37 matches for table-toppers Leeds.
Ben White is on loan at Leeds but Brighton are keen to keep hold of himCredit: PA:Press Association
The Brighton defender, 22, has attracted interest from Premier League giants following his impressive loan stint.
According to The Athletic , both City and United, are now eyeing a move for the youngster, who is under contract with the Seagulls until 2022.
Liverpool’s talent scout, Andy O’Brien, has tracked White throughout this season and the Gunners have also been keeping tabs on the defender.
He caught Arsenal’s attention during the FA Cup meeting between the two teams in January at the Emirates.
Brighton chairman Tony Bloom, poured cold water on the transfer speculation by reportedly making it clear there is no need to cash in on players.
The south coast side are not encouraging bids and aren’t under financial pressure to cash in on the youngster.
And in February Albion boss Potter said: “I’m delighted he’s had a great experience with Leeds but he’s our player and I’m looking forward to working with him.”
Leeds tried to include an option to sign White permanently during negotiations last summer, but Brighton stuck to their guns and said no to any future arrangement.
The Yorkshire club are set to target the Seagulls defender again if their push for promotion materialises, but they have modest expectations of sealing a permanent switch.
White has become a fans’ favourite during his season-long loan spell at Elland Road.
An adorable five-year-old Leeds fan recently used his £15.07 pocket-money to ‘bid for the Brighton ace.
White joined Brighton’s youth ranks in 2016 after he was released from Southampton’s academy at the age of 16.
He was shipped out on loan to Newport County before he enjoyed a short stint with Peterborough.
The youngster is predominately used as a centre-back, but can be deployed as a defensive midfielder.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
