Everton will be in the market for a new defender this summer – and Ben White is thought to be on the club’s radar.
Everton are set to target a new right-back and centre-back as a matter of priority this summer, with the likes of Seamus Coleman, James Tarkowski and Michael Keane all ageing.
Thoughts on potentially signing Ben White? 🤔
Arsenal right-back Ben White.
Ben White has been linked with Everton for several weeks now, and the interest has again been reported this past week.
He’s a centre-back by trade, but has long played right-back for Arsenal, potentially making him an ideal player for David Moyes.
But Everton perhaps need to think twice about any summer move, after the player endured a real tough outing against Southampton.
Everton target Ben White struggles as Arsenal crash out of FA Cup
Yesterday evening, Arsenal took on Southampton in the FA Cup quarter-final.
It was a chance for them to bounce back after defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
But it was the Championship outfit who triumphed, beating the Gunners 2-0 at St. Mary’s Stadium.
Ben White playing for Arsenal.
Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
And White had a game to forget, with the Evening Standard handing him a paltry 3/10 rating. They said: “Made a complete mess of the cross for Southampton’s opener, jumping under it.
“Almost miraculous he avoided a booking in the second half.
“Got into decent positions on the overlap but final ball was lacking.”
It follows a poor performance from the defender for England against Japan, where White struggled to contain Keito Nakamura.
It was noted by Goal in that game that White ‘didn’t provide enough on the ball to justify his inclusion’.
White’s form really has taken a bit of a nosedive in recent weeks. His last five average ratings from FotMob have all been below 7.0, with his showing against Southampton coming in at just 5.6.
Everton have to think twice about Ben White pursuit
So at the moment White isn’t in great form.
Everton seemingly like the player, but perhaps these performances ought to prompt Everton to reconsider.
Ultimately, Arsenal are going to demand a fortune for White this summer because he’s a player in his prime.
Ben White looks on.
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
And as much as Everton do need a new right-back, the Toffees also need to be smart with their spending.
Many Arsenal fans have regularly criticised White this season, and feel like it is time for him to move on.
That speaks volumes, and Everton need to carefully consider whether a move would be worth it, at a time when it is just so crucial to recruit well.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox