Leeds United director refuses to give up on Ben White as Brighton loan star signs-off in style

White has been excellent this season at Elland Road as the Brighton loanee played a key role in their title-winning campaign and return to the Premier League.

He made 49 appearances for Marcelo Bielsa's men and showed his versatility with excellent displays at centre back and also as a defensive midfielder.

The only thing missing from his time with the Whites was a goal and the 22-year-old put that right in stunning fashion in Leeds' final match of the season during the 4-0 win against relegated Charlton.

Leeds dominated the match and took the lead when White controlled the ball on his chest and smashed home a sublime volley from 18 yards.

It delighted Leeds' fans on social media but it could well be the last time they see him in Leeds colours.

When asked where he will be next season, White seemed unsure of his future plans, "It's an unbelievable club and unbelievable fans and I've really enjoyed my time. With this manager and this set of players, they've definitely got a chance (in the Premier League)."

Brighton head coach Graham Potter has repeatedly insisted White will be back at the Amex Stadium next season and Potter views the defender as a key part of the Premier League campaign next season.

"He is contracted with us," said Potter. "He is our player, it's fantastic that he has had this season with Leeds.

“Everyone won, he got great experience and Leeds got their goal of promotion.

“We rate Ben highly, I've followed his career personally from when he was at Newport to Peterborough and we were aware of him at Swansea and we were trying to sign him ourselves, we like him a lot.

"He's a really good player and thankfully he is our player.

“We'll see him in pre-season and he will be part of our group. When the rest of the guys report back.

"He's a good player he will be competing for a place like everybody."

Leeds managing director Angus Kinnear however has not ruled-out the possibility of retaining White who has also attracted interest from Premier League giants Liverpool, Man City and Tottenham.

"We have an advantage in that Ben loves the club and he has loved playing for the club," said Kinnear.

"He loves his teammates and knows he will get game time under Marcelo, so we have a small advantage.

"Ultimately, we are going to be fighting with some big names for his signature.

"I think Ben is going to be hugely sought after, it is one of the risks of doing the type of deal that we did," said Kinnear.

"I know supporters will wonder why there wasn't an option to buy him but Brighton weren't prepared to do that.

"It was either take the player without an option or don't take him at all.

"We clearly made the right decision and we have some conversations to have with Brighton as to where they see his future.

"They rate him very highly and other clubs rate him very highly."

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