Arsenal defender Ben White could be tempted by a shock switch to Liverpool if the opportunity arises, with his long-term role at the Emirates now under scrutiny.
The £50 million signing has played a significant role in the Gunners’ rise under Mikel Arteta since arriving from Brighton, initially establishing himself as a key centre-back before moving to right-back following the emergence of William Saliba. However, over the past year, his influence has waned.
A combination of a serious knee injury and the outstanding form of Jurrien Timber has pushed White down the pecking order. As a result, the England international has found consistent minutes hard to come by across the defensive line.
While Arsenal would prefer to keep the former Brighton man, speculation is growing that he could look elsewhere for regular football. Liverpool have been mentioned as a potential destination as they continue to review their defensive options, particularly with Ibrahima Konaté’s contract entering a crucial phase. A move to Anfield could offer White increased game time and a fresh challenge.
Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy believes the transfer would make footballing sense, even if it’s complicated by rivalry between the clubs. Speaking to BoyleSports, Murphy said:
“Ben White to Liverpool would make sense but Arsenal might not want to sell to a rival. It would depend on how adamant the player is that he wants to go. If Ben White was an option, I think that would be a good option for Liverpool.
“I think he’s a really good footballer, he’s a big lad. Yes, he’s had a couple of injury problems recently, but he’s an experienced guy, he’s played a lot of games and he can play centre-back and right-back.
“I wouldn’t see why if Liverpool were keen, then why he wouldn’t try and force that move, having said that I’d find it strange to think that Arsenal would let him go. Or they might just think they’re too far ahead of Liverpool anyway, so we’ll have to see how that plays out.”
Everton have also been linked with an interest in the defender, but a switch to Liverpool would give White the platform to compete for major honours. The 26-year-old is also eager to revive his international career, which stalled during Gareth Southgate’s tenure as England boss.
Arsenal’s defensive depth has only increased following their summer recruitment, with Piero Hincapié and Cristhian Mosquera arriving at the club. As things stand, White has made just four Premier League starts, underlining how fierce the competition has become at the Emirates.