Leeds United, Everton, Chelsea and Liverpool circle £35m-rated Brighton man - but how likely is a deal?

Ben White is the name on Brighton and Leeds United fans’ lips at the moment – here, we take a look at the story so far and how likely a deal is.
Leeds United, Everton, Chelsea and Liverpool circle £35m-rated Brighton man - but how likely is a deal?Leeds United, Everton, Chelsea and Liverpool circle £35m-rated Brighton man - but how likely is a deal?
Leeds United, Everton, Chelsea and Liverpool circle £35m-rated Brighton man - but how likely is a deal?

WHAT'S THE STORY?

The Brighton defender – who spent last season on loan at title-winning Leeds United – is set to return to the Amex Stadium.

However, such has been the quality of his performances for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, several clubs have emerged as contenders to sign the 22-year-old.

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Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham all reportedly monitored White during his loan spell.

SkyBet are offering odds on White’s next move, with Leeds priced at 7/4 favorites to re-sign the Elland Road favourite on a permanent deal.

The rest of the contenders are Leicester City (12/1), Liverpool (12/2), Everton (20/1) and, bizarrely, Sheffield Wednesday (33/1).

WHAT IS GRAHAM POTTER’S STANCE?

Brighton’s head coach believes the young defender is ‘100%’ ready for the Premier League and expects White to provide a good option to his squad.

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He said: "He brings a different type of centre-back. I think he complements the others really well. He has got attributes that are really, really useful and he is going to be a top player.”

WHAT HAS BEN WHITE SAID RECENTLY?

Interestingly, the defender penned a heartfelt thank you/goodbye message to Leeds United.

"Having had some time to reflect on what has been the most incredible season I wanted to take the time to thank everyone associated with Leeds United Football Club, including the incredible supporters," he said in an Instagram post.

"No matter what happens from here I will never forget the way you took me in and treated me as one of your own from day one. These memories and experiences will be with me forever. #MOT"

WHAT IS LIKELY TO HAPPEN?

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Well, it’s tough to say – and White could well end up staying put on the south coast.

Leeds United would have to part with the lion’s share of their budget to complete a deal, and Liverpool have reportedly been told they will have to pay at least £35m for White.

But as of yet, no formal bids have been made, meaning this story probably has some way to run.

All odds correct at the time of writing. Over 18s only. Please gamble responsibly and Be Gamble Aware. www.begambleaware.org.