Arsenal are facing a potentially big decision over Ben White as Everton look to tempt the Gunners into doing business.
White has struggled massively for form and fitness this season and has dropped down the pecking order at The Emirates, with Jurrien Timber now firmly established as the number one choice at right-back.
That has led to suggestions that Mikel Arteta may have given up on White, and with Arsenal also keen on Tino Livramento, it seems the club are looking into the full-back positions again.
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Now, with the January transfer window in full swing, Everton could be set to offer White a route out of Arsenal.
Everton keen on Ben White as Leeds set to keep Jayden Bogle
A report from Football Insider is suggesting that Everton have now turned their attentions to signing White as they look to solve their own issues at right-back.
The Toffees have been looking for strength at right-back and have never quite got the ideal replacement for Seamus Coleman. Everton’s interest comes as it’s suggested Leeds United full-back, Jayden Bogle, has turned down any interest from Merseyside.
As for Arsenal, it remains to be seen if they could be tempted into doing business to allow White to leave this January.
For now, a loan deal would seem the most likely option. Given Arsenal paid £50m for White and he is on huge wages, it’s unlikely the Toffees have the cash to fund anything permanent.
Furthermore, one would imagine Mikel Arteta will be keen to keep his squad together for the title run-in.
Still, the January window can throw up surprises and if Arsenal can somehow land Livramento, it would be no surprise to see White moved on.
Why letting Ben White go now would be a bold call from Mikel Arteta
Despite not being first-choice and having injury issues this season, letting a player go of Ben White’s calibre at this stage of the season would be more than risky.
Sure enough, he hasn’t quite contributed as much as he can or would have liked.
How much money should Arsenal demand for Ben White if Mikel Arteta decides to sell him?
Arsenal paid £50m for Ben White in 2021.
But in what could be a tight finish as the pressure builds from Man City in the title race, having a player who is already settled and can play right-back, centre-back and even in midfield if needed, could be priceless for Mikel Arteta.
Right now, it makes no sense to let Ben White go and unless there is a replacement lined up who can come straight in and do the same job, this interest from Everton needs to be shot right down.
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