Noel Whelan insists that Leeds United have to be clever in the transfer market and urged them not to spend a ridiculous amount on Ben White.
The centre-back arrived on a season-long loan from Brighton in the summer and has shone in the Championship despite having never played at this level before, with his performances helping the Whites to the top of the table. Therefore, there is plenty of talk surrounding the long-term future of the 22-year-old, with European champions Liverpool thought to be interested.
Of course, Leeds would love to make his move a permanent one but realistically that is only going to happen if they win promotion, although that looks likely with the Yorkshire club seven points clear of third-placed Fulham with nine games to play. Even then, the defender is sure to command a huge fee.
Should Leeds pay £25m+ to sign Ben White permanently?
Yes
No
With that in mind, ex-forward Whelan told Football Insider that whilst he is a massive fan of White, the club must act responsibly in the market.
“I think you have got to be sensible with your money. Do not get me wrong. The kid would be worth whatever you pay for him because long term he will be an England international and a very successful centre-half.
“I really would love him to stay at Leeds but you have got to manage the books properly. You have got to make sure you get players in for the right money at the right price that are not going to send the club under.”
The one factor that Leeds may have in their favour is that White has spent the current campaign at Elland Road, with Marcelo Bielsa picking him in every Championship game this season, which highlights the faith he has in the player. Chelsea have also been linked with the youngster and it was claimed in December that the Blues would have to pay £25m to convince the Seagulls to do business for the former Newport County man.