Football News

Date revealed for medical as Arsenal prepare to complete huge signing

Ben White will undergo a medical ahead of his move to Arsenal on Wednesday, according to a report.

Arsenal have agreed a deal with Brighton to sign White, who was a member of the England squad that reached the Euro 2020 final. While he did not play at the tournament, his presence in the squad was the reward for another successful year. The defender has come a long way over the past couple of seasons and could soon get further recognition for his rise with a transfer.

Brighton have held firm over White’s valuation, first rejecting several offers from Leeds last summer after his loan spell with the 2019-20 Championship winners.

This year, with a season of Premier League football under his belt, they have driven his price up further. Arsenal will end up paying £50m after having two lesser bids rejected, while Brighton will also have a sell-on clause.

The agreement was found last weekend, although there has been no word from either club because the transfer is not yet complete. White is still due for a medical after taking some extra time off following his Euros involvement.

Now, Sky Sports News have revealed when that medical will take place. They claim White will undergo those duties on Wednesday to put the finishing touches to the transfer.

Should all go to plan, the 23-year-old will become Arsenal’s third signing of the summer after Nuno Tavares and Albert Sambi Lokonga.

White will end his stint with Brighton on 41 appearances, having been out on loan for most of his time there. They enjoyed his talents last season, but are set to finally cash in.

His departure will leave them with a void to fill at the back, but they have already been linked with a few names to replace him.

Arsenal, meanwhile, will be hoping to have him available as early as possible, so he can start shoring up their backline. Defence was a problematic department for Mikel Arteta’s side last season, so the England international should help them improve.

White questioned over Arsenal choice

While the move to Arsenal is an obvious step up for White, some felt he could have aimed even higher.

Manchester United and Chelsea were recently criticised by one pundit for not getting more involved in the race for his signature.

Then, another commenter criticised the player himself for his choice of next destination.

Danny Mills said: “What is he going to win at Arsenal? The League Cup if he is lucky. Maybe the FA Cup?

“It’s going to be a while before Arsenal win a Champions League.

“Winning the Premier League, you’re looking probably seven or eight years down the line. He might be retiring before that stage.

“I think he is an exceptional player and a fantastic signing for Arsenal. I’m just a little surprised Manchester United, who are looking for a centre-half, haven’t come in for him.”

READ MOREPundit questions whether £60m target is ‘difference-maker’ Arsenal need

The post Date revealed for medical as Arsenal prepare to complete huge signing appeared first on TEAMtalk.