Ben White signs new Brighton deal after 'brilliant season' at Leeds United

The 22-year-old was an exemplary figure in United's title-winning Championship campaign in 2019-20 and proved the outstanding defender in the second tier in a faultless season.

He played every minute in every league game for Marcelo Bielsa's side.

Leeds were keen to bring him back to Elland Road on a permanent basis, but Brighton rebuffed several offers due to a reluctance to sell to a side who they consider to be a rival.

United were forced to switch targets and have now brought in German international defender Robin Koch, who is an effective replacement for White.

On White signing a new deal, Brighton head coach Graham Potter said: "I have been looking forward to working with Ben for a long time. He was a player I was well aware of, even before I came to the club.

"He has gradually stepped up the EFL divisions, with Newport County, Peterborough United and Leeds United.

"He had a brilliant season helping Leeds to the title last season, and now he has the opportunity to show his qualities in the Premier League.

"We are delighted to have agreed a new long-term contract with him, and I am sure our supporters will be looking forward to watching him play for the club.”

Albion’s technical director Dan Ashworth added: "There has always been a strong belief in Ben at this football club, and his ability to play at this level of the game.

This new contract is well deserved for Ben. He has worked incredibly hard, and has not been afraid of going out on loan. We have been delighted with his progress.

"Our academy and player loan department have done an excellent job to bring Ben through the club’s younger teams, and then in helping to oversee his development while out on loan.

"He has played at almost every level of the professional game, and his development has been very well managed. His next challenge is to show his capabilities at the highest level of the domestic game.”