Arsenal have been chasing Ben White for a number of weeks and it finally seems like the Gunners will be able to sign him.
Mikel Arteta’s side were waiting for the European Championship to finish and as soon as the tournament is over, they have stepped up their interest in the defender.
It’s being claimed that Arsenal are ready to spend big on the 23-year-old England international and as per the latest reports, even the Brighton defender is eager to join the Emirates outfit.
Sky Sports report: “Brighton defender Ben White wants a move to Arsenal to happen as talks continue between the clubs after two rejected bids.
“The England defender loves Brighton but feels the time is right for a new challenge.”
Should Arsenal reconsider signing Ben White?
Brighton and Hove Albion surprisingly want around £50 million for Ben White and what is even more shocking is the Arsenal are willing to spend such a steep amount – despite missing out on European football next season.
A lot of people have urged Mikel Arteta to think twice before spending so much money on a defender who has not played too many Premier League matches in his career but as per Nigel Winterburn, a player like Ben White is the need of the hour.
Winterburn told Tribal Football: “Last season I wasn’t sure about Arsenal’s best combination in the central defence and I did think Arsenal would go for one in this market.
“50 million is a lot of money and we have a lot of centre backs already whose record last season wasn’t actually too bad.
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“Mikel Arteta had to give them protection which affected our attacking play, so I’m not surprised we’re in the market.
“Ben White is a player coming through, he’s at a good age, but it is a lot of money for a defender. If Arsenal believe that he’s the player to take them to the next level then absolutely they should pursue him.
“I can’t really argue the point that he would be an improvement on what we’ve already got.
“From what I’ve seen he’s a very talented player and if Arteta wants him then let’s make sure we get the transfer done.”
It’s almost impossible for Arsenal to attract all the big players this summer since they are not in Europe. So, the only way for them to make quality signings is by paying inflated prices.
Brighton know fully well how badly Arsenal need reinforcements and since Ben White has three more years left on his current deal, the Seagulls are trying to squeeze every penny from this transfer.
Yes, £50 million is a lot of money for someone like Ben White but to be very honest, there are not a lot of quality central defenders out in the market who will readily agree to join Arsenal.
