Brighton’s center-back Ben White extends contract with Seagull, douses Leeds interest

Brighton, a Premiere League club has announced that Ben White, the club’s center-back, has signed a new long term four-year contract with the club until 2024.

White, who was on loan last season at Leeds, had been the target of the club for the summer signing.

Following his excellent performance at the Leeds and Elland Road club, Leeds had wished to have White signed on a long term deal with the club.

Last season, he played 46 games for the Leeds helping the club to get promoted to the Premiere League as Championship winners returning to the top tier for the first time since 2004.

Graham Potter, Brighton boss, while speaking on the deal, on Tuesday September 1, 2020, expressed his desire to make White an integral part of the Seagull’s squad this season and work with him for a long time.

“I have been looking forward to working with Ben for a long time. He was a player I was well aware of, even before I came to the club.

“He has gradually stepped up the EFL divisions, with Newport County, Peterborough United and Leeds United.

“He had a brilliant season helping Leeds to the title last season, and now he has the opportunity to show his qualities in the Premier League,” Potter said.

“We are delighted to have agreed a new long-term contract with him, and I am sure our supporters will be looking forward to watching him play for the club,” he added.

White’s contract extension comes following Lewis Dunk, the club captain and center back’s extension last month, who had signed a new contract with the Brighton until 2025.

Dan Ashworth, Seagull’s technical director, also commented on White’s extension saying that it was a well deserved contract for him given his unswerving support for the club.

“There has always been a strong belief in Ben at this football club, and his ability to play at this level of the game.

“This new contract is well deserved for Ben. He has worked incredibly hard, and has not been afraid of going out on loan. We have been delighted with his progress,” Dan Ashworth said.

“Our academy and player loan department have done an excellent job to bring Ben through the club’s younger teams, and then in helping to oversee his development while out on loan.

“He has played at almost every level of the professional game, and his development has been very well managed.

“His next challenge is to show his capabilities at the highest level of the domestic game,” he added.

Seagull is gearing up for a start of a new campaign at their home with Chelsea on September 4.