Noel Whelan impressed with Leeds United’s Ben White

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Ben White joined Leeds United on loan from Brighton and Hove Albion in the summer transfer window.

Noel Whelan has suggested on BBC Radio Leeds that he hopes that Ben White stays at Leeds United in the long term.

The former Leeds striker has been impressed with the displays produced by White for Marcelo Bielsa’s side so far this season.

The 21-year-old central defender joined the Whites from Premier League club Brighton and Hove Albion in the summer transfer window and has established himself as a key figure in the team.

The youngster looks calm and composed on the ball, makes the right decisions in defence, times his challenges well, and also passes the ball well.

Whelan thinks that White is going to be a “top-class defender”, and hopes that he stays at Elland Road beyond next summer.

Whelan said about White on BBC Radio Leeds: “I hope he stays with us because at the minute from what I have seen he is going to be a real, real top-class defender.”

Long-term Leeds United stay

If White maintains his performance level throughout the season, then it will be tough for Leeds to keep hold of the defender if they do not clinch promotion to the Premier League.

After all, Brighton could well decide to keep the defender in their team next summer, or sell him at a price that may not be affordable for Leeds should they remain in the Championship next season.