Arsenal have joined three other members of the big-six in the race to sign ‘£50m-rated’ defender Ben White, according to a report.

Ben White of Brighton and Hove Albion controls the ball watched by Bukayo Saka of Arsenal - 23/05/2021. Copyright: Matt Impey / Shutterstock
Ben White of Brighton and Hove Albion controls the ball watched by Bukayo Saka of Arsenal – 23/05/2021. Copyright: Matt Impey / Shutterstock

The Mirror report that Arsenal have joined the race to sign Brighton centre-back Ben White this summer. Mikel Arteta is reportedly a big admirer of the player, and the club are keen to make a move this summer.

But it’s going to be an expensive deal. Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, and Manchester United are interested in the 23-year-old, who is rated at £50m.

Brighton are also keen to keep White, who broke into England’s squad for the Euros after Trent Alexander-Arnold had to pull out. They’re in a pretty strong position, with the former Leeds United loanee still under contract until 2024.

Despite all that, Arsenal are keen on White as someone who can strengthen their defence whilst also showing composure in possession.

White is certainly comfortable on the ball, to the extent that he was sometimes used in midfield this season. He’s also young and homegrown, which partly explains the premium price. His biggest weakness appears to be in winning aerial duels.

Personally, I’d be surprised to see Arsenal making a big-money move for White, particularly when they already have William Saliba returning from loan, who is young, (will be) homegrown, confident on the ball, and possibly also a little dodgy in the air.