Noel Whelan has tipped Ben White to play at the highest level after a stunning start to the season.

The central defender, who is currently on loan with Leeds United from Brighton, has been a revelation this term after establishing himself as a key player in Marcelo Bielsa's side.

White has been a virtual ever-present for the Whites this term and is expected to play a big part in the club's hunt for promotion.

Despite being on loan until the end of the season, the 22-year-old has been linked with a big-money move to Manchester United and Liverpool, and the former Leeds United man says that he's not surprised by the interest in the defender.

Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan said: “Ben White is an outstanding defender. I realised within a few games that Pontus Jansson wouldn’t be missed, and it’s long been clear he’s much better than Pontus.

“You’re looking at not just a top Premier League player of the future but someone good enough to play for England and in the Champions League. He’s that good.

“Brighton are going to have to sort out what to do with him as they have some top centre-backs. Will they cash in next summer?

“He wouldn’t be cheap. I’ve seen him linked with Liverpool and Man United, and I’m not surprised. He’s going to be way more than £20million now. £20m wouldn’t buy his left leg.”

Can you name the entire Leeds United line-up from their final Premier League fixture? Have a go here!

 

The verdict

It's no surprise to see Ben White attracting the sort of interest that he has.

The 22-year-old has taken to life at Elland Road like a duck to water, and his ability to handle the pressure of such a big club will be hugely appealing to the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United.

Of course Brighton will want to keep the defender, and as we've seen in recent season there is a huge step up between the Championship and the Premier League, so perhaps White would be better staying with the Seagulls for his own development, or even moving to Leeds if they did secure promotion.