Recently reports from The Athletic (subscription needed) had emerged that Manchester United were keeping tabs on Brighton’s centre back Ben White who is currently enjoying an impressive loan spell with Championship outfit Leeds United. Along with the Manchester heavyweights, Liverpool were also said to be genuinely interested in the defender.
Graham Potter on Ben White’s future
However, Brighton boss Graham Potter has put on a defiant message recently as he claimed that the 22-year-old has a future with the Seagulls.
Potter recently responded to White’s future speculations and said (Brighton And Hove Independent), “He’s our player and has a future here. He’s on loan now at Leeds and having a positive experience. But we’re looking forward to having him back at the right time. He’s our player; he’s contracted with us.”
It is believed that Manchester United are considering making a £20m swoop for the English defender in January. Brighton does have an option to recall the defender in January, but White is playing at a level far higher than what was expected from him at Elland Road. Therefore, the Seagulls might think twice now before recalling him back. Moreover, Potter has clearly claimed that White will be a given a go in Brighton colours in the future.
Does Manchester United need defenders?
The Red Devils brought in Harry Maguire in the summer, and the jury is still out on whether he has really helped his side in defence or not. We believe that the club should part ways with Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo and Chris Smalling soon to clear some dead wood from the squad. If that happens, then, Solskjær might need a defender or two and an upcoming talent like White might turn out to be a smart signing.
What should United do?
Even though the Brighton boss has claimed that White has a future at the Amex Stadium, United should still try their luck in January to tempt the English defender. The centre back has put in some impeccable performances for Leeds United, and they have the best defence in the Championship at the moment. White’s reading of the game and ability to make interception and tackles makes him stand out.
He is calm and assured in possession, and he hardly seems fazed whenever he is on the pitch when dealing with the opposition. We think he has all the makings to thrive in the Premier League. Even though Brighton might be reluctant, Solskjær should put in a bid of somewhere around £20-25m to test the Seagulls’ resolve. The defender’s price tag could easily double up in a few years, and United should try to bring in him before that happens.
