According to a recent report by the Argus, Liverpool are plotting a £20m move to secure the services of Brighton and Hove Albion defensive ace Ben White, who is currently playing on loan at Leeds United. The same source has claimed that the Seagulls are reluctant to part ways with their prized asset as they have no intention of selling the English centre-back who recently penned a new deal at the Amex Stadium which expires in the summer of 2022.
White’s Incredible Form While On Loan At Elland Road
White has been enjoying a rich vein of form since joining the Whites on a season-long loan deal earlier this summer. The 22-year-old has already put in some impressive defensive displays at Elland Road which has raised his stock in English football.
The Brighton youth product has featured in 12 matches for Marcelo Bielsa’s side this term across all competitions. He has made an average of 2.4 tackles, 3.3 interceptions and 3.6 clearances per game for the Whites in the domestic competitions (stats via whoscored).
The ex-Newport County talent is a centre-back by trade but can also fill in as a right-back if required. His versatility, coupled with his defensive prowess, make him an excellent option for the Reds if they decide to make a move for his services in the coming years.
What Are The English Defender’s Best Attributes?
White is a reliable presence at the heart of the Leeds United backline as he can command his own box with authority and conviction. He can also make some vital clearances for his side and is not afraid to go in for a tackle when his teammates need him to step up on the field. Furthermore, the English defender is comfortable playing the ball out from the back, which could make him a useful asset for any of his potential suitors.
Is White The Right Fit For Klopp?
The addition of an up-and-coming talent like White will undeniably improve the overall depth of the Reds squad. At this moment, he is not good enough to play for a top club like Liverpool week in week out. However, White has proven his worth in the Championship which could make him a decent back-up for Joel Matip and Virgil Van Dijk. The Seagulls rising star will be an ideal long-term replacement for Dejan Lovren who seems like he will leave Anfield soon in search of more game time.
White will be a brilliant fit for the Merseyside giants as he has what it takes to be a future star in the top tier of England. As for Klopp, acquiring the English centre-back’s services will rid him of the headache of finding a decent long-term replacement for Lovren.