Arsenal could face a battle to keep hold of defender Ben White this month, with the £50 million star reportedly open to forcing a shock move to Premier League rivals Liverpool.
Murphy's Transfer Verdict
Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy has claimed that the versatile England international would "jump at the chance" to join Jurgen Klopp's side if they made an approach. Murphy suggested that while Arsenal would be reluctant to sell to a direct competitor, the player's own determination could be the deciding factor in any potential deal.
"I think he’s a really good footballer, he’s a big lad," Murphy told BoyleSports. "Yes, he’s had a couple of injury problems recently, but he’s an experienced guy, he’s played a lot of games and he can play centre-back and right-back."
Why White's Arsenal Future is in Doubt
White, who joined the Gunners from Brighton several years ago, has seen his minutes drastically reduced over the past year. Once a crucial part of Mikel Arteta's defensive setup, he has been limited to just four Premier League starts this season.
This decline is attributed to a combination of factors: a serious knee injury, the sensational form of summer signing Jurrien Timber, and the continued excellence of William Saliba, which originally pushed White out to right-back. Arsenal's further defensive recruitment in the summer, bringing in Piero Hinacpie and Cristhian Mosquera, has only intensified the competition for places at the Emirates.
Liverpool's Defensive Need
The speculation comes at a time when Liverpool are actively assessing their defensive options. A key driver is the uncertain contract situation of French centre-back Ibrahima Konate, whose deal is winding down, potentially creating a vacancy in the squad.
Murphy believes a move to Anfield would represent a logical step for White, offering him the regular football he craves to revive his stalled England career and a platform to challenge for major honours. While Everton have also been linked, a switch to Liverpool is seen as the more ambitious path.
"I wouldn’t see why if Liverpool were keen, then why he wouldn’t try and force that move," Murphy added. The final decision, however, may hinge on whether Arsenal consider themselves "too far ahead of Liverpool" to be concerned about strengthening a rival.
