Kinnear gives Ben White update as Leeds line up three alternative deals

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Leeds United transfer chief Angus Kinnear says supporters should be excited by the players who could join them this summer.

Speaking to the Extra Ball podcast, via Sussex Live, Kinnear stated that Elland Road supporters will be pleased with the signings they make, even if they miss out on Ben White.

Marcelo Bielsa’s men have been trying to land White in a permanent deal for much of the summer. However, they have failed to strike a deal for the impressive centre-back.

For their part, Brighton are determined to keep hold of the 22-year-old, putting a high price tag on to ward off potential suitors.

Kinnear has admitted that Leeds are continuing to speak to Brighton over completing a permanent move.

But he added that there are also three alternative targets lined up, as they make plans in case they fail to land White.

“The reality is, he did a wonderful job for us, but he’s a Brighton player. They rate him very highly, I’m sure they see us as a rival,” Kinnear said.

“There is competition for his position at Brighton. I would imagine they are going to be giving him a level of confidence that he’s going to be selected week in, week out.

“The conversations are continuing but we have to be respectful of Brighton’s position, that he is their player.

“There is no lack of financial commitment in terms of trying to secure him. But there comes a point where you have to accept that it’s not going to happen, and you don’t pursue someone for too long at the expense of other targets.

“We have two or three other names in that group in terms of that position, who supporters should be really excited about. I know emotionally it won’t have the same appeal as getting Ben back. But if it doesn’t work with Ben we’ve got some good cover lined up.”

GERMANY INTERNATIONAL ON LEEDS’ RADAR

One player seemingly on Leeds’ radar, if a deal for White does not happen, is Freiburg defender Robin Koch.

According to the Telegraph it will cost upwards of £30million to thrash out another deal with Brighton for White.

Indeed, further reports in The Sun claim Manchester United – who have more spending power – are also keen.

As such, the Telegraph adds that Germany international Koch is Bielsa’s alternative to White.

The newspaper says the fact that Koch’s contract runs out next summer puts Leeds in a strong position. They can now secure a cheap deal, with Freiburg keen to sell rather than lose him for free. Read more…