Ben White’s injury could cost Arsenal millions in the summer as Andrea Berta’s summer transfer strategy just became harder
Ben White could have played his last game in an Arsenal shirt should suggestions of a summer exit prove to be true following a significant injury in the Gunners’ win over West Ham United. White was replaced in the first half, suffering a potential MCL injury to his knee, which has since been confirmed to be season-ending.
White is such a considerable loss to Arsenal on many levels. Clips have been doing the rounds from his contract renewal, where several members of the squad describe what it is they appreciate about him.
He is labelled by many as a ‘warrior’ but crucially a player who is calm and has composure. He possesses character traits which would be invaluable for a side chasing the Premier League title and that have qualified for the UEFA Champions League final.
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With Jurrien Timber also injured, it leaves Mikel Arteta in a difficult position. Yet, beyond the season, it looks set to create a challenge for sporting director Andrea Berta.
football.london understands many clubs, both in England and on the continent, have been keeping a keen eye on White’s situation. As he was proving his fitness with a possible World Cup with England on the agenda, there was a growing sense of a summer market opportunity emerging for White.
Timber’s presence in the team and preference from Arteta were heavily restricting White’s exposure despite calls that the Arsenal manager should have utilised the former Brighton man more throughout the season. Which may even perhaps have contributed to the injury Timber would get.
The full-back is believed to be valued at over £30million, which, if achieved, could have aided in finding a replacement to support Timber. Tino Livramento is a player Arsenal hold an appreciation for, football.london understands, although the Newcastle United defender would be expensive and has persistent injury issues of his own.
Oscar Mingueza, Celta Vigo’s right-back, who has four caps for the Spanish national team, is another who has piqued Arsenal’s interest. Particularly considering his contract is due to expire with the La Liga club this summer.
Should White’s injury, which does not require surgery, keep him out for the duration of the summer, it could therefore complicate the club’s summer strategy. Berta is under pressure to address the issues surrounding player sales, which have been a failure of the club in the last decade.
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