Arsenal are weighing up a summer sale of Ben White. The defender has fallen down the pecking order under Mikel Arteta, and the club needs funds for recruitment. A move away from North London is now a serious possibility.
Why a Ben White exit from Arsenal is possible?
As per reports, Arsenal have opened the door to a sale for Ben White. The club want to raise funds for their upcoming summer transfer plans. They still admire the player’s technical skills and range. But there is a growing belief within the club that he needs regular minutes at this stage of his career.
Jurrien Timber has gradually replaced White as the first-choice right-back. This has left the former Brighton star battling for regular starts. Moreover, Arteta’s change in tactics has seen the 28-year-old fall further down the squad rankings. He has played only seven games in the Premier League this season.
White has played with conviction in a wider role over the past two seasons. But the defender reportedly still desires to return to his preferred centre-back role where he first thrived. But Saliba and Gabriel anchor the spot at present. White’s hopes clearly won’t be fruitful in the North London club anytime soon.
Also, a major recent update is White’s shock recall to the England football squad under Thomas Tuchel after three years. This has made him realise he needs to be starting games on a regular basis to maintain his international career.
This desire for regular minutes, combined with the need to reinvest, makes a summer transfer a distinct possibility. The Gunners are looking to reform their squad and offload a few players to balance the books. However, the reports also claim that a sale can only happen if a hefty offer comes in their way.
Serious interest for the defender in the next transfer market
Several teams are tracking his situation closely as the transfer window grows closer. Everton have emerged as the leading teams to secure his signature. They had a strong interest since the January window.
Meanwhile, Manchester City view him as a useful option to improve their defensive depth. They value his proficiency on the ball. Chelsea have also entered the frame as they seek experienced players to guide their fairly young backline.
Newcastle see him as a potential successor to Kieran Trippier, whose future at St James’ Park remains uncertain. Furthermore, Manchester United and Liverpool are paying attention to updates. Liverpool have been tracking him since his time in Brighton.
There are multiple sides that are keen. But Everton reportedly appear to have the edge in any potential negotiations as they look for proven top-flight experience.
The career legacy of Ben White
Throughout his time in North London, the defender has played 181 games and scored seven goals across all competitions. He won the Community Shield with the Gunners in 2023.
White has had some memorable moments for the club. He scored his first goal for the club against Bournemouth with a volley in the 2022-23 campaign. Later in the following season he scored his first brace against Chelsea in a 5-0 win.
Mikel Arteta earlier praised his efforts, stating: “He trains like he’s playing the Champions League final. That’s why he’s come a long way in such a short time in his career.”
To fill his void, the club have picked five likely prospects as per reports. These include the 21-year-old Spanish star Ivan Fresneda and Wesley Franca from Roma. Franca has impressed with six goal contributions this term.
The club are also viewing Newcastle’s Tino Livramento as a top option. They see him as a worthy upgrade. Other names on the shortlist include Vanderson from Monaco and Nnamdi Collins from Frankfurt.
For now, the situation remains open. Much will depend on the right offer. Arsenal will make their move as needed.
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Souvik Bose
Souvik Bose is a junior football writer at Football Express, where he contributes articles focused on ongoing developments and discussions from the football world. His work involves covering news stories, key talking points, and the narratives that shape how fans engage with the sport. At Football Express, Souvik focuses on delivering football coverage that is timely, informative, and accessible to readers following the game closely. His writing reflects a deep interest in the evolving culture of football and the stories that emerge around the sport’s biggest moments.
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