Years remain ahead of Ben White at Brighton & Hove Albion and that’s whether they are in the Premier League or the Championship.
The Seagulls’ technical director Dan Ashworth has mirrored recent comments made by chief executive Paul Barber about White’s future on the south coast.
Leeds United have had a remarkable season’s service out of the centre-back who is due to return to Amex Stadium at the conclusion of this campaign.
Naturally, in light of his limited pitch time with Brighton, the Whites want to keep the defender in West Yorkshire permanently and built their defence around him.
Unfortunately for director of football Victor Orta, White has another two years to run on his contract in Sussex, keeping the power in the top flight club’s hands.
The Argus quotes Ashworth revealing talks have gone on between himself and Orta, but the plan is clear in keeping White regardless of relegation.
“We have been delighted with his progress,” he said. “Leeds have done a brilliant job with him.
“I was speaking with their sporting director and he has done really well.
“Leeds have done great and Ben has played almost every minute of every game other than the first half of a cup game.
“We are delighted. Not surprised because we rate him but we are delighted with how well he has done.
“He is still well contracted with us. He signed a new contract in the summer before he went out so we have still got plenty left on him.
“As soon as he comes back, we will see where we are, we will see where the season resumes, what league we are in, etc, etc.
“He would certainly be part of plans in either scenario and a young talent we would be looking to keep here for a number of years.”
