Brighton youngster Ben White has rejected a new contract offer from the Premier League club amidst interest from us as well as Liverpool, according to The Sun.
The 20-year-old White who is currently on loan with Newport made senior appearances for Brighton in the EFL Cup during the 2016-17 season.
He was sent to Newport last summer in order for him to gain more experience at the highest level and to aide his development. He has been a key part of the Newport side this season as they attempt to win a place in the promotion playoffs, with the club currently 9 points behind 7th placed Swindon Town.
The youngster’s performances have alerted a number of clubs who have monitored his progress at Newport and he has subsequently declined the chance to sign a new contract with his parent club.
We do have a good reputation for the way in which we have worked with young talents during recent seasons and it appears that White is on our summer shopping list along with David Brooks.
We will, however, face strong competition from Liverpool who have also been signing players from lower Leagues during recent seasons, notably Joe Gomez and Emeka Obi. However, unlike us, the Reds do not really have space for another central defender in their squad and if White does join them, it will be very difficult to see him get first team action.
At this stage, Brighton will represent his best chance of gaining first-team football at a higher level. However it does remain to be seen if the Seagulls manage to avoid relegation this season, as they are just 4 points clear of 18th placed Swansea.
The prospect of playing for a club which has higher status and better facilities could be something appealing to the player.
