Leeds United chief executive makes surprise Brighton admission on Ben White pursuit

Newly-promoted Leeds have had three bids rejected, the third of which was submitted on Tuesday night and believed to be in the region of £25m.

White, 22, is contracted with Brighton until 2022 and reported back for preseason training with Albion on Wednesday.

He was hugely impressive for Leeds during his season-long loan and played in all 46 Championship games last campaign as Leeds were promoted as champions to the Premier League under Marcelo Bielsa.

Leeds are determined to strengthen their squad ahead of their first campaign in England's top flight since 2004 and losing the services of White would represent a big step backwards in Bielsa's team building process.

Brighton view White as a key part of the Premier League plans for this season and are desperate to keep a player who has also attracted interest from Manchester City, Tottenham and Liverpool.

Brighton are well stocked in defensive areas with Lewis Dunk, Adam Webster, Shane Duffy, Dan Burn and new signing Joel Veltman all proven at the highest level.

Albion head coach Graham Potter is also a huge admirer of White's calm defensive qualities and even tried to sign the youngster from Brighton during his time in charge at Swansea in 2018.

Brighton continue to negotiate with White on an improved contract but so far they are yet to reach an agreement with the player who has yet to make a Premier League appearance.

That offers a glimmer of hope for Leeds but the club admit Brighton's refusal to budge means they are actively pursuing other defensive options.