Leeds see second, improved bid rejected for vital cog in Bielsa machine

Leeds have had an improved bid of £22m rebuffed for a key component in their promotion-winning campaign.

The Whites are set to embark on their first top flight campaign since 2004 when the new season gets underway.

In preparation, the club have already been active participants in the transfer window.

Winger Helder Costa and goalkeeper Illan Meslier have both been secured on permanent deals, but one glaring void still remains.

That comes in the form of centre-half Ben White, who became a crucial cog in forming the Championship’s meanest defence last year.

However, parent club Brighton are understood to be keen to integrate him into the first-team squad following his progression, and the latest report from Sky Sports enforces that notion.

They report that Leeds have had a second, improved bid of £22m rejected for the 22-year-old. Their first bid was worth £18.5m.

Something of an impasse could be set to develop, though, with the article noting White has also ‘turned down two contract offers from Brighton.’

White has two years remaining on his current deal at The AMEX, and has also attracted interest from Liverpool.

Dejan Lovren’s exit to Zenit St. Peterseburg has left the Reds short on central defensive cover, and White has frequently been touted as an option.

Leeds montioring Man City defender as Plan B

Meanwhile, Leeds could move for Manchester City youngster Taylor Harwood-Bellis if Liverpool scupper their White pursuit.

The Liverpool Echo report that White was scouted extensively by the Premier League champions during his loan spell at Leeds. And his versatility could add extra appeal as White can play at right-back or as a defensive midfielder.

Journalist Phil Hay believes that, in the circumstances, Leeds should be acting quickly to find a back-up if White doesn’t continue his time at Elland Road.

And The Athletic journalist says Manchester City could be the place to look.

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