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As Leeds fans celebrate the release of the club’s new home shirt, there may be cause for further celebration surrounding the Ben White transfer saga.
Sky Sports are reporting that the Whites have made a third bid for the 22-year-old, believed to be in the region of £25 million.
Leeds United have made a third bid for Brighton defender Ben White - believed to be £25m.
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 19, 2020
Joe Rawson, of Sky News, has passed on claims that White is pushing for a return to his former loan club, and has subsequently turned down a third contract offer from Brighton & Hove Albion.
This new information contradicts previous rumours that Marcelo Bielsa’s side had drastically increased their offer to £30 million.
Ben White really pushing for a move to Leeds @skysports_sheth reporting he’s turned down a third contract offer at Brighton. #Lufc have made a third bid for the defender worth 25 million pounds.
— Joe Rawson (@joerawson) August 19, 2020
A significant advantage Leeds hold over other suitors is the friendships that White forged during his time at Elland Road, with the likes of Ian Poveda, Kalvin Phillips and Tyler Roberts doing little to hide their feelings on the matter.
The latest twist in the tale comes as other reports suggest Graham Potter’s side want as much as £55 million for White, who is set to play Premier League football for the first time next season.
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Five hours before the news broke, The Athletic’s Phil Hay tweeted that no progress had been made in negotiations between Leeds and Brighton.
Premier League champions Liverpool and FA Cup finalists Chelsea are also supposedly interested in signing White.