Arsenal right-back Ben White is expected to leave the club during the ongoing transfer window, according to The Telegraph.
The England international has been a key player for the Gunners over the past five years, making almost 200 appearances in all competitions.
However, he is no longer a guaranteed starter for the club, and The Telegraph claim that he is ‘expected’ to head for the exit door this summer.
The club have already started the process of pursuing a replacement, with Aston Villa star Ezri Konsa considered an upgrade at right-back.
Arsenal likely to recoup funds with White sale
The Gunners signed Ben White from Brighton & Hove Albion for £50 million in 2021, and he started off his career at the club as a centre-back.
However, White moved into the right-back slot in the following season after the emergence of William Saliba, who partnered Gabriel Magalhaes.
White has since lost his regular right-back position to Jurrien Timber. Most of White’s starts last season came when Timber was rested or out injured.
The Englishman eventually picked up a season-ending knee injury in May, but he is widely anticipated to return for pre-season training later this month.
In our view, White may have played his final competitive game for the Gunners, given manager Mikel Arteta is driving the club’s interest in Konsa.
The Spanish tactician has already converted White and Timber from central defenders to regular right-backs, and plans to do the same with Konsa.
Villa reportedly value him at around £60 million, but given his age (28) and current contract status (expiry in June 2028), he could be signed for less.
Meanwhile, White has regressed over the last two years amid his persistent injury concerns. With his contract also expiring in 2028, Arsenal may look to recoup some of the investment made in signing him before landing a high-profile replacement such as Konsa.
Stats from Transfermarkt