Italian outlet CalcioMercato claim that Manchester City are keen on signing Arsenal defender Ben White ahead of the January transfer window – with the England star one of two defenders the Premier League champions have targeted.
White, 25, has been crucial for the Gunners since joining the club from Brighton in the summer of 2021, for £50m. The England star, who returned early from the World Cup earlier this month, is currently Arsenal’s first-choice right-back.
Of course, the ex-Leeds defender was first choice at centre-back last term. The return of William Saliba has seen White move to the right flank. He has excelled in that role, keeping Takehiro Tomiyasu out of the side – a natural right-back.
With Arsenal and City looking as if they are going to be direct rivals for the Premier League title this season, it is highly unlikely Arsenal would consider selling to City. But nevertheless, White is one of two defenders targeted by City.
White, along with RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol – who sparkled at the World Cup with Croatia. White has a contract at Arsenal until the summer of 2026. On the face of it, it would be a surprise. City do need more defenders, though.
ITALIAN MEDIA SAY MANCHESTER CITY KEEN ON SIGNING ARSENAL DEFENDER WHITE
It is unlikely. On paper and in terms of what Manchester City need, you can understand why the Premier League champions would want a player like White. More cover on the right, and in the middle of their defence at The Etihad.
Kyle Walker has had his injuries at right-back. Manuel Akanji was drafted in to play in the middle towards the end of the summer window. So, City need more defensive options and White would certainly give them that.
But the two issues with such a move are, firstly, being Arsenal would never sell to City with the duo going head to head. Secondly, why would White go to City when he is starting at Arsenal? White would warm the bench at City.
