According to The Sun, Tottenham are among clubs interested in Ben White. The Brighton & Hove Albion defender is currently one of the most in-demand players in the Premier League, with all of the top clubs keen on securing his services. Spurs too have joined the race to sign White, who is being valued at £50 million by the Seagulls.
What Can White Bring To The Table?
White has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign at Leeds United this past season, helping the Whites secure promotion to the top-flight after 16 years. He was a key component in Marcelo Bielsa’s tactical setup that revolved around possession-based football.
So essentially, the young centre-back was primarily picked for his ability to play the ball out from the back. Indeed, he is an exceptional passer of the ball, with his passes ranging from short laser ones to long accurate diagonal balls. This made him a real asset at Elland Road.
Another key asset in White’s game is his defensive commitment. He is known for his aggression and tenacity, which, combined with a no-nonsense defensive style, makes him a reliable outlet in the backline.
Moreover, the Brighton defender is quite versatile as well. Aside from his preferred centre-back role, White had featured as a holding midfielder a few times for Bielsa, especially during the final phase of the campaign when Kalvin Phillips got injured. His technical prowess helps him dictate things in that number six role.
Is White The Right Option For Spurs?
Following the departure of Jan Vertonghen, Tottenham require an imposing centre-back and White, in that regard, could be an ideal choice.
The 22-year-old has already shown his pedigree with consistent performances in the Championship during the 2019/20 campaign. But more importantly, he is equipped with the right attitude and qualities that could make him an asset under Jose Mourinho’s defence-oriented style of play.
Indeed, White can be an ideal replacement for someone like Vertonghen. His technical prowess, combined with his defensive solidity should combine well with Toby Alderweireld in the Spurs backline. In fact, the presence of such an experienced defensive figurehead should only help White become a better defender.
From a player’s perspective, thriving at Spurs could go a long way in helping White seal a spot in the England National Team for the upcoming European Championship next summer.
Although a fee of £50 million looks like a huge gamble from Tottenham’s part, it is a gamble Mourinho must take, if he is to improve his defence ahead of the next season.
