Arsenal’s January transfer window has been non-existent, however, Ben White’s future is one ongoing discussion point.
It’s understood that Arsenal are open to selling White in the near future, but the right-back has been used more than some would’ve expected this season.
As Mikel Arteta’s options at full-back continue to fluctuate due to injury, reports about a possible exit for the 28-year-old increase.
Everton have shown an interest in White in the January transfer window and now, a fresh update has emerged.
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Ben White is coming to Arsenal realisation amid January transfer exit links
Ben Jacobs appeared on the Highbury Squad podcast to share the latest on all things Arsenal transfers.
It came as no surprise to hear the journalist go into detail about White’s future.
Firstly, Jacobs set the record straight regarding rumours about White being eager to leave Arsenal.
“I’m not aware that he’s overly agitating to leave, but by the same token, if the right offer arrives, I think that you’ll find both Benjamin White and Arsenal have a conversation.”
Jacobs noted that it ‘remains to be seen’ whether White could leave in January or in the summer, bringing Everton’s interest into the discussion.
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The most interesting part of Jacobs’ update was his understanding of what the player himself is coming to realise.
“From White’s point of view, I think he understands regardless of form or fitness that in the long run it might be best to start looking elsewhere,” Jacobs said.
He then added, “My understanding is that he’s starting to wonder in the next, let’s say, year to two years.
“Is there going to be that ability to play every week? Is there going to be that chance to hold down a starting spot or is he going to slide further down the pecking order?
“And that’s not something I think that makes the player feel particularly confident about being a squad player at Arsenal even if they end up winning trophies for fun.”
On paper, White leaving Arsenal in the winter would be an error for both the defender and for the Gunners, who both seek silverware.
The issue is, of course, what comes next, with Jacobs’ understanding opening another door to how the transfer narrative is painted.
White’s market value is a problem for Arsenal
Letting White go would be a silly decision for Arsenal, as aside from him slipping down the pecking order, he’s incredibly useful for Arteta.
There is, however, another problem as when Arsenal do come to sell the 28-year-old, they’re unlikely to make a profit.
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Arsenal paid £50m for Ben White in 2021.
Transfermarkt indicates a drop of €25m in White’s market value, going from having a €55m value to a €30m one in the space of a year.
A decline in game time reflects badly on how much Arsenal can expect to receive for their defender, who not very long ago, was a starter.
It’s a difficult situation for both club and player, one that is surely more likely to be resolved in the summer.
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