CHELSEA are reportedly ready to upstage Arsenal by making a last-gasp swoop for Ben White.
The Transfer Window Podcast claims the Blues have told the Brighton defender they want to sign him this summer.
Chelsea have a space free for a new central defender following Fikayo Tomori’s AC Milan move.
And England international White could now be set to play for Thomas Tuchel’s European champions next term.
Arsenal were thought to be leading the race for White after making several bids.
SunSport also revealed Everton were interested too following Rafa Benitez’s appointment.
But £50million-rated White could instead be going to Stamford Bridge.
And Premier League champions Manchester City are also keeping tabs.
Duncan Castles said: “We’ve told you there’s been interest and a conversation with Man City.
“I now understand that Chelsea have notified the player of their interest in signing him.
EURO 2020 FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN NEW CUSTOMER DEALS
“I think that’s significant competition for Arsenal because Chelsea can obviously offer Champions League football, can offer a club based in London in the same way that Arsenal can.
“But one that should be immediately competitive for the Premier League title, and one that hasn’t had much hesitation about spending aggressively of Ben White’s profile and age range.
“I think on previous podcasts we suggested that once serious offers started to come in for White, it is likely that other clubs would get involved in a competitive bidding process.
“And I think a competitive bidding process is obviously going to be of benefit to Brighton.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk