Arsenal make a bid for Manchester United target Ben White

According to The Athletic (Subscription Required), Premier League rivals Arsenal have made a transfer bid for Manchester United target Ben White.

The 23-year-old was amongst the bright spots in what was eventually a disappointing season for the Seagulls in 2020/21. He was rewarded for his performances with a call-up to the England squad for the Euros, replacing the injured Trent Alexander-Arnold.

The Gunners’ first bid is worth £40million but is expected to be rejected by Brighton. The amount falls below what the Seagulls want for the player.

Thanks to his England selection, Brighton are now seeking £50million for the player’s services. It represents a marked increase over the £35m that was touted just a week ago.

Arteta is keen to secure a new right-sided centre-back in the current transfer window and is also in the running for another United target Jules Kounde. They now appear to have turned their attentions to White.

The Gunners are coming off the back of a disappointing campaign that saw them miss out on European football for the first time in 25 years. They are expected to invest significantly in the summer window.

A step down

Arsenal are not the only team in the fray but it remains to be seen if their early move gives them an advantage in the race. United are in a better position football-wise and can even offer White the opportunity to play in the Champions League. Whether that will be enough for us to sway the deal in our favour remains to be seen.

With three years to go on his current deal, Brighton holds the aces when it comes to negotiations. Moreover, they could strengthen their hand further if they offer him a new deal this summer.

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While he is far from the complete package, the 23-year-old has shown good acumen and understanding of the game. In all fairness, a move to Arsenal wouldn’t be a big step up given their current standing in the game. Whether money makes the difference, in the end, remains to be seen.