If rumours are to be believed, Leeds United have had a big bid for Ben White knocked back.
According to Sky Sports News, Brighton have rejected a £22 million offer from Leeds for their former loanee.
The 22-year-old dazzled during a season-long loan spell at Elland Road last term, helping Marcelo Bielsa’s side to Premier League promotion after 16 years outside the top flight.
This was reportedly United’s second bite at the cherry, following an initial £18.5 million attempt, and it looks like Victor Orta is going to have to break the club’s transfer record to sign him.
According to The Yorkshire Evening Post, Rio Ferdinand remains the Whites’ record signing after a £23.4 million move from West Ham United in 2000.
So, having had £22 million turned down for White, it’s only logical that Leeds’ next offer is higher than the sum paid out for Ferdinand 20 years ago.
Will that be enough to tempt the Seagulls? It might.
Albion aren’t in that strong of a position regarding the negotiations. Yes, he’s their player – a player who hasn’t made his league debut for Brighton yet – but Sky Sports News added that he has turned down two contract extensions.
White, who is contracted to the club until 2022, probably wants to leave and if a bid of around £25 million comes in, it might be enough.
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