Exclusive: Leeds tipped to re-sign Ben White after Phil Hay reveal
Kevin Phillips has suggested Leeds United could sign Ben White next season – on loan again but from one of the Premier League big boys.
The 2000 European Golden Shoe winner, speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs, suggested Marcelo Bielsa could use his relationship with Pep Guardiola to secure a second deal were Manchester City to sign the 22-year-old.
White has hugely impressed at Elland Road this year after joining on a season-long loan from Brighton last July.
Phil Hay revealed on his podcast that Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United are “keen” on securing the young centre-half’s signature this summer.
Leeds hope personal relationships the player has built with teammates this season may persuade the defender into signing permanently.
When asked by Football Insider if another season at Elland Road would be best for the Englishman’s development, Phillips said: “I want to see him playing. He has developed into a fine player and I am sure he is going to command a big fee.
“If a big club comes in with big money it will be difficult for Brighton to keep him. But if he ends up at a big club and is not going to be a regular I would like to see him go out on loan.
“It would be a no brainer if Leeds go up, and say Man City come in with a ridiculous bid, and then want to loan him to a Premier League side for a season – it could work.
“He could then develop even more. Whatever happens, I want to see him playing football.”
Guardiola has long been an admirer of Marcelo Bielsa and their relationship has been favourable for the Whites in moves for Jack Harrison and Ian Poveda.
However, given the Premier League champions current defensive issues, White may come straight into the heart of the City defence if signed.
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