Leeds forced to admit defeat in Ben White chase for one major reason

Ben White

Brighton will not sell defender Ben White to Leeds – for any price – as they do want to sell to a direct Premier League rival.

The Premier League new boys had a third bid – worth £25m – for White rejected last week. And Sky Sports claims they will now turn their attentions elsewhere for a new centre-back.

White spent last season on loan at Elland Road as Leeds won the Championship title to make their long-awaited top-flight return.

Despite their struggles last season, the Seagulls eventually finished the campaign in 15th – seven points clear of relegation.

White had been identified as Marcelo Bielsa’s number one defensive transfer target this summer. The player is reported to have turned down three contract offers on the south coast.

The 22-year-old’s current deal at the Amex Stadium runs until 2022, with the option of a further 12 months. And the report adds that Brighton boss Graham Potter is keen to integrate him into the first team this season.

Resigned to missing out on White, Leeds are now expected to step up their interest in SC Freiburg defender Robin Koch.

 

Bielsa’s men have also had a bid turned down for Rangers winger Ryan Kent, as they look to bolster their squad.

Leeds’ first game back time is a mouthwatering one against champions Liverpool on September 12.

 

LEEDS GIVEN MORENO GREEN LIGHT

Leeds could this week settle on a club-record deal to sign Valencia striker Rodrigo Moreno, according to reports in Spain.

Leeds were linked with a move for the 29-year-old last week as they prepare for their top flight return. Marcelo Bielsa is believed to be a fan of his relentless work rate and sees him fitting into his system.

And his hopes of signing Rodrigo have received a boost after a report claimed the Spain striker would be keen on a move to Elland Road.

Despite being a key part of the plans at Valencia, they say he is ready for a new challenge elsewhere. With plenty of excitement building around Leeds’ Premier League comeback, the Whites could be the ideal option for him.

Now reports in Spanish paper Sport claim firm talks over a deal have been held. They claim Los Che are willing to offload the player to the Yorkshire side and talks between the two parties had taken place. Read more…