Everton's hopes of signing Arsenal defender Ben White in the January transfer window have been dealt a significant blow. Reports indicate the Premier League leaders have no intention of allowing the £50 million signing to depart this month, despite his reduced role this season.
Why Everton's Interest Has Been Rebuffed
According to sources, including football.london, Arsenal have 'zero interest' in sanctioning White's sale midway through the campaign. The club's hierarchy is determined not to lose any momentum in their title charge and views weakening the squad's depth as unacceptable.
Everton, who are dealing with injuries to Jarrad Branthwaite and Seamus Coleman, had been alerted to White's situation. The Toffees were said to be 'waiting in the wings' for a potential deal, but will now have to focus on other targets like Genoa's Brooke Norton-Cuffy and Sevilla's Juanlu Sanchez.
White's Changing Role at the Emirates
Ben White, who joined from Brighton in July 2021 for £50 million, was a mainstay in Mikel Arteta's defence for his first three years, making 134 appearances. However, his standing has shifted following a season disrupted by injury, where he missed 27 games.
The emergence of Jurrien Timber at right-back and the formidable centre-back partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have limited his opportunities. The summer arrivals of Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie have further increased competition for places.
This term, White has made just 13 appearances in all competitions, with only four Premier League starts. He was, however, handed a rare start in Sunday's FA Cup win over Portsmouth, playing 69 minutes before being replaced by Timber.
Arteta's Stance and White's Future
Despite his limited minutes, manager Mikel Arteta has publicly praised the 29-year-old's attitude and importance. After a fine performance against Brentford last month, Arteta stated White remains a 'focal part' of his plans and a 'tremendous player' the squad will need.
'His attitude has been so positive, so good,' Arteta said. 'Then when you are ready and you’re given the opportunity, you take it like he did today. I’m very happy that we have him back in the best version of himself.'
Arsenal are expected to assess White's future with Arteta at the season's end. Given his contract runs until June 2028 with an option for a further year, and that he has not regressed since his signing, the club would be reluctant to sell for significantly less than the £50 million they paid.
For now, the message from North London is clear: Ben White is going nowhere in January, as Arsenal focus fully on maintaining their position at the top of the Premier League.
