Signing Ben White won’t electrify Arsenal’s passionate fan base, but he’s just the sort of sensible transfer that Mikel Arteta needs to make this summer.
Arsenal are heading into the 2021-22 campaign without the promise or burden of European football. That will have a significant impact on the club’s transfer policy. Fortunately for supporters of the Gunners, their favourite club are already close to just the sort of boring move they need to focus on.
According to Football London, Arsenal are involved in advanced negotiations with Brighton regarding a move for centre back Ben White. The 23-year-old defender isn’t going wow fans at The Emirates with a litany of world-class goals, but he can help Arteta’s side keep more clean sheets for years to come.
White is clearly keen on the move to North London, but the two clubs have not yet agreed to a suitable transfer fee. Brighton officials correctly understand that White can walk right into Arteta’s starting XI next season. He can provide the Gunners with a significant upgrade over the quality of play they received from David Luiz last season.
That doesn’t mean Arsenal will be forced to pay over the odds to complete the deal. White is a very solid centre back, but he lacks elite size or athleticism. He’s never going to become a world-class defender as a result.
Ben White is still perfect for Arsenal
Arsenal don’t need to get caught up in the lack of sizzle in White’s game. He’s a rock-solid defender who can help solidify the Gunners’ central defence. Building a solid platform at the back should give Arteta’s attack a more solid foundation to build on going forward.
Arsenal fans should be pleased if White is the most expensive signing the club makes this summer. It’s time for the club to focus on substance more than style. White may be a boring transfer, but he can pay off massively for Arteta and his squad next season and beyond.