Arsenal set to accelerate pursuit for highly rated defender as season opener draw closer

Premier League side Arsenal are reportedly willing to fast track the pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion defender Ben White as the new season draw closer.

Arsenal have been linked with Ben White for the majority of the transfer window as Mikel Arteta is eager to strengthen his backline after a woeful season last time out.

The 23-year-old may not have featured for finalists England at this summer’s tournament, but Arsenal have identified him as the solution to their problem at the back.

According to a new report from Evening Standard, the Gunners are ready to test Brighton’s resolve as White is no longer away on international duty with England.

With Brighton holding out for around £50m for their prized asset, Arsenal might be tabling their offer in the next few days.

There are reports that Ben White is open to a move to North London and personal terms are not an issue, but Arsenal will have to convince Brighton with a transfer fee.

The gunners have been busy in the transfer window bringing in left-back Nuno Tavares from Benfica for £7m ahead of the new season.