It's certainly going to be an interesting summer transfer window ahead for Ben Whites, as he looks to have his long-term future resolved at the earliest of opportunities. 

The central defender has been hugely impressive on loan with Leeds United this season, as they edge closer to achieving a long-awaited promotion back into the Premier League.

The Brighton and Hove Albion man has made 40 appearances for the Yorkshire-based side this term, and his Leeds teammates are believed to be trying to convince White to extend his stay at Elland Road in the future.

But they face stiff competition to land his signature, with The Sun reporting that Liverpool and Manchester United are also interested in signing White ahead of the summer transfer window.

Speaking in an interview with Football Insider, former Leeds man Noel Whelan stated that the Yorkshire-based side have to be sensible with their money, even though White could be worth a considerable amount in the future.

"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."

Whelan went on to admit that he would be keen to see White make his stay at Elland Road a permanent one, but insisted that the club's finances and future are the most important thing to consider.

"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.

"It is a really difficult one because you are also looking at Champions League football and it is his choice."

Due to recent off-the-field events, Leeds' promotion bid has been put on hold, which will be frustrating given they are currently sat top of the Championship table.

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The Verdict: 

You can see where Whelan is coming from.

White has been brilliant this season for Leeds, and he's clearly got a bright future ahead of him. I'm not surprised to hear that Liverpool are interested in landing his signature.

But he will have to think about his game time at the club he decides to sign for, as it he needs regular minutes to further his development.

It seems inevitable that Leeds are going to be outmuscled when it comes to finances when they're coming up against Liverpool in the race to sign White.