Man City Plot Shock Move for Frustrated Arsenal Defender
The Premier League title race has taken a fresh twist off the pitch, with Manchester City reportedly considering a surprise January move for Arsenal defender Ben White. According to transfer specialist Graeme Bailey, the England international is growing increasingly frustrated by a lack of playing time at the Emirates Stadium.
White has managed just six appearances so far this season, with only a single start in the Premier League. This limited role has alerted rivals, with Pep Guardiola's side identifying him as a potential fit for their system, specifically as a right-back. Bailey revealed to Arsenal Insider that while White is not currently demanding a move, he is aware of the interest and is not content to remain on the bench long-term.
"He isn't going to spend the rest of his career sat on the bench," Bailey stated. "The other one that I've heard who are keeping tabs on his situation, because they think he could be a very good fit to them as a right-back is Man City." Interest from European giants Atletico Madrid and Juventus is also present, but a move abroad is not thought to be White's primary preference.
Tottenham Star Prioritises North London Derby
Meanwhile, the focus for Arsenal shifts immediately to the pitch and the looming North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur after the international break. In a significant boost for Thomas Frank's side, key winger Mohammed Kudus has decided to skip international duty with Ghana to ensure his full fitness for the clash at the Emirates Stadium.
Kudus missed recent matches against Copenhagen and Manchester United with a minor knock. His absence was keenly felt, with Spurs defender Micky Van de Ven labelling him an "unbelievable player" whose creativity was missed. The decision by both player and club highlights the fixture's importance, with Spurs aiming to improve their strong away record this season.
Title Race Heats Up Ahead of Vital Period
The backdrop to these developments is a tightening title race. Manchester City closed the gap on Arsenal last weekend with an emphatic victory over Liverpool, while the Gunners dropped two points in a draw against surprise package Sunderland. This served as a stark reminder of City's enduring threat under Pep Guardiola.
The upcoming January transfer window and the congested festive fixture schedule are now viewed as potentially decisive in determining who lifts the Premier League trophy. A move for a key player from a direct rival, such as White to City, could have significant ramifications for the second half of the campaign.
