Arsenal and Chelsea could soon become embroiled in a fierce bidding war for Brighton & Hove Albion defender Ben White with both keen to secure his sought-after signature this transfer window.
The Gunners are expected to make a third bid for the Seagulls star after having their initial two offers rejected by the south coast club, but the Blues have reportedly made contact, too.
Brighton owner Tony Bloom is understood to be content to let White go if he desired - provided, of course, if his valuation of £50m is met for the 23-year-old England prodigy.
Following the centre-back's successful spell at Elland Road, Brighton rejected multiple offers from Leeds United after he was pivotal to their promotion campaign out of the Championship.
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And it appears the Seagulls have an even tougher task to keep hold of the 23-year-old ahead of the upcoming campaign as the Premier League's 'big six' hone in on the highly-rated defender.
Speaking on the Transfer Window Podcast, football journalist Duncan Castles claims that Chelsea are set to provide "significant competition" to Arsenal for White's signature.
"We've told you there's been interest and a conversation with Manchester City," Castles said.
"I now understand that Chelsea have notified the player of their interest in signing him.
"I think that's significant competition for Arsenal because Chelsea can obviously offer Champions League football, can offer a club based in London in the same way that Arsenal can.
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"But one that should be immediately competitive for the Premier League title, and one that hasn't had much hesitation about spending aggressively of Ben White's profile and age range.
"I think on previous podcasts we suggested that once serious offers started to come in for White, it is likely that other clubs would get involved in a competitive bidding process.
"And I think a competitive bidding process is obviously going to be of benefit to Brighton."
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is looking to overhaul his squad after finishing eighth last season, their lowest placing since 1995. Could White be the key to a stronger defence?
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The bookies currently have him as the overwhelming favourite to join the Gunners, but will Chelsea have what it takes to hijack their London rivals' bid? Only time will tell.
Ben White next club betting odds
- Arsenal - 1/7
- Everton - 5/1
- Manchester City - 8/1
- Aston Villa - 20/1
- Chelsea - 25/1
- Paris Saint-German - 25/1
- West Ham United - 25/1
Odds are correct at the time of publication and are, as always, subject to change.
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Featured Image Credit: PA ImagesTopics: Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea, Ben White, Arsenal