Noel Whelan has given his reaction to Everton reportedly holding talks over a move for Ben White in the summer transfer window.
The Lowdown: White talks
As per The Daily Mail, the Goodison Park faithful have held talks with Brighton and Hove Albion over a deal worth up to £55m for White.
The proposal reportedly trumps the £46m offer made by Arsenal, Graham Potter's team are looking to hold out for £50m+ to sell the central defender.
The Latest: Whelan reacts
Whelan, a pundit and former Leeds United striker who watched White play at Elland Road when he was on loan there in the 2019/20 season, has since given his reaction to the news to Football Insider, claiming that White would be a great signing for the Merseyside club:
“Yeah, absolutely huge.
“He’s one of those natural, modern-day centre-halves that covers everything. He’s got pace, he’s good in the air, he’s great on the ball and with the ball at his feet.
“He can play into that defensive midfield role as well. We keep saying adapting to different roles and that’s why Gareth Southgate has him. It’s not just as a centre-half.
“It doesn’t surprise me. Everton know how important it is to have these British players as well in their side. Definitely, Rafa Benitez will.
“Whoever gets him is getting an absolutely amazing, long-term centre-half. I’m sure he’ll be in the England setup for many, many years.”
The Verdict: Sign now!
With the Gunners still lurking, the Toffees must act now if they are serious about securing White's signature.
A player that is so versatile, the central defender is equally as comfortable playing at right-back in addition to the defensive-midfield position, which is such a good quality to have with another long season ahead.
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His call-up to the England squad for Euro 2020 by Gareth Southgate shows just how much progression he has made and what an impressive campaign he has just had, and at just 23 years of age, White could be the starting centre-back at the Blues for years to come.
In other news, find out what Fabrizio Romano transfer update has Evertonians fuming here!