Leeds United transfer chief Angus Kinnear has suggested to the Extra Ball podcast, as relayed by Sussex Live, that supporters should be excited about the targets they have lined up, if they miss out on Ben White.
Leeds have been trying to pull off a permanent deal for White for much of the summer so far, but they have failed to get a deal over the line.
Brighton & Hove Albion are determined to keep hold of the 22-year-old, and have put a high price tag on him.
Kinnear now admits that Leeds are continuing to speak to Brighton over completing a permanent move.
But Marcelo Bielsa’s men also have 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.”
If Leeds do fail to land White it unquestionably will be a blow to the Whites’ plans for the new season.
White became a real fans’ favourite on loan last term, and his performances were a key reason behind why Leeds were able to earn promotion.
If Leeds do have to buy an alternative target he will be under pressure to hit the ground running.
Whoever Leeds sign will be compared to White, and the youngster set such a high standard last season, he will not be an easy act to follow.
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