Reports that Brighton and Hove Albion will be demanding a fee of £35m from Leeds United if they wish to sign Ben White permanently have been dismissed as ‘utter waffle’.
It was recently reported by Football Insider that the Seagulls will demand the aforementioned figure for the 22-year-old but football correspondent Scott Chegg has dismissed the claim via Twitter.
Following the circulation of such rumours on Twitter, Chegg wrote: “I’ve received numerous messages tonight about this one. Can confirm, utter waffle.”
White has played a key role for Marcelo Bielsa’s side this season, starting in 100% of their Championship fixtures and playing every single minute so far (as per Transfermarkt.co.uk).
Leeds United boast the best defensive record in the division, conceding just 32 goals so far, and given the fact he has been an ever-present, it’s impossible to overlook the part the loanee has played in obtaining their impressive record.
Are you hopeful Leeds will strike a deal with Brighton for Ben White?
Yes
No
TIF Thoughts…
The Yorkshire-based club are closing in on promotion to the Premier League for the first time since they were relegated in 2004 and according to Phil Hay of The Athletic, Ben White remains ‘right at the very top’ of Leeds’ list of transfer targets.
However, he does go on to say that is ‘more through hope than optimism’, which suggests the club are anticipating being priced out of a deal for the player. According to WhoScored.com, White’s average performance rating currently stands at 7.06/10, the joint-fourth-highest rating in the Leeds squad.
In our view, it would be wise for Leeds United to consider alternative options if they’re looking to add a central defender this summer, in case they are unable to match whatever Brighton’s valuation truly is, or end up facing competition from the likes of Liverpool.