According to The Sun, Brighton are unwilling to sell Ben White To Leeds United this summer. The Premier League club are reluctant on offloading their star player to direct rivals, especially one who could be near them in the Premier League table next season. In this article, however, we will discuss three reasons why Marcelo Bielsa must go all out for White this summer if he is to succeed in the English top flight.
A Tactical Fit
During his one-year loan spell at Leeds United, it has been made clear that White tunes in well with the club’s tactical scheme. Throughout the season, he has offered unrivalled defensive support to Liam Cooper at centre-back. His determination and ability to read the game have, in fact, added a new dimension to the club’s defensive game.
Moreover, the fact that White isn’t shy to move forward and press the ball-carrier adds further strength to Leeds’ second line of press. It has served them well, especially when dealing with teams that play on the counter.
The defender’s excellent passing, meanwhile, helps the Whites sustain possession and play out from the back, a quality that could be important in the Premier League, where the club needs to be much more efficient. White could be an ideal outlet, in that regard.
An Ideal Player For The “Bielsa Way”
One of the most underappreciated qualities regarding White is his strong mentality. Indeed, the Brighton & Hove Albion man is blessed with the excellent determination and fighting spirit. Also, he is known for his defensive commitment and strong temperament, allowing to keep check of his markers.
Having such a strong mentality was a key reason behind the defender’s success under Bielsa, and it was evident in his performances this season as he has never tired and always tried to run his socks off for his team, even during final stages of the pitch. It is indeed a noble trait for any Premier League player.
That is where Leeds United could have used the services of White. His talents would combine well with his mentality giving Bielsa an ideal source of inspiration at the back.
A Versatile Option
Last but not least, White is known for his versatility. This season, for example, Bielsa has used him not only as a centre-back but also as a holding midfielder, at times. It was prevalent especially during the restart period where the Argentine mastermind deployed the 22-year-old as a number six, with Kalvin Phillips operating further upfront.
This could be a useful thing to have for Bielsa in the Premier League as well, and White will be able to provide that.
