Leeds United might not be looking clinical in front of goal, but they have done relatively well at the back this season. One player who has surprised everyone and performed well beyond expectations is Brighton youngster Ben White. The English defender is on a season-long loan and has hardly put a foot wrong at Elland Road so far.
We think that United would definitely love to sign him permanently in the future, but their aspirations could take a significant hit as latest reports from Daily Mail indicates that Champions League holders Liverpool are said to be interested in White after his impressive performances in the Championship.
Reports add that Liverpool could make a £20m move for him in January. It would be astonishing if that happens as the Whites have him on a season-long loan.
What makes White special?
The Englishman has a calming presence at the back, and he just seems to be one step ahead of the attackers. White’s reading of the game is brilliant, and he knows when to sit tight with his man and go in for a challenge and when to fall back deep and delay. Before this season, White hadn’t played at the Championship level, and his only notable appearances came in the League One.
After United sold Pontus Jansson, there were question marks whether an untested 22-year-old would be able to do a job at the back, but White has been more or less faultless so far this season starting in every game in the Championship.
What now for Leeds United?
Given his talent, we think that United would probably love to have him at Elland Road on a permanent deal. That could only happen now if they move to the Premier League by next season as then they should have the financial muscle to sign the 22-year-old permanently. However, even then, it could be tough for them to get him given the attraction of playing at Liverpool.
But if White wants to play regularly, then he might not want to move to Anfield given that the Reds have some top centre-halves at their disposal. Brighton too would be keeping track of his excellent work and they would probably want to give him a go next season.
Therefore as things stand, Leeds will probably find it hard to keep him even if they move up a division. Hopefully, they can benefit from him as long as they can this season. As for Liverpool’s interest in January, it’s tough to see Brighton sanctioning a move midway through the season when he is playing regularly at Elland Road.
