Leeds United's Brighton loanee Ben White reveals dream scenario for next term

Centre-back White has excelled since joining Leeds on a season-long loan from the Seagulls last July with the defender playing every single minute of every league game so far for Marcelo Bielsa's Championship leading Whites.

Five-year-old Whites fans Daniel Auton then made national headlines by writing to Brighton's chief executive Paul Barber to offer the £15.07 in his piggy bank in a bid to land the defender's services.

Barber wrote back to the young Whites supporter, thanking him for his offer but ultimately rejecting his bid for a defender whose progress is being monitored by several Premier League big guns with the centre-back already being tipped for an imminent England call.

Replying to a screen shot of Barber's letter back to young fan Auton on Twitter, Whites chairman Andrea Radrizzani said: "Great job Daniel! You are welcome to join the club and help Victor Orta after your school! We will top up your offer for Ben and go back to Mr Barber."

Brighton's technical director Dan Ashworth then said on Saturday that White was a part of his club's plans and someone the Seagulls would be looking to keep at the club "for a number of years."

Sky Sports then organised a video call between young fan Auton and White with Auton's dad Craig saying he and his son were preparing for a second bid.

"I think we are up to about £60 now so we will have to test the waters with another letter I think," he said.

White also again thanked the young fan for his interest saying: "I heard it on the internet and I really appreciate all the support he has given me and the little letter sent to Brighton."

Young Daniel was then asked what he wanted to say to White and cut straight to the chase, asking "are you staying at Leeds?"

"We don't know just yet but I've really enjoyed my time at Leeds and it's been a really good season so far," said the 22-year-old Whites loanee.

Then asked what would be the dream scenario for him next season, White said: "Brighton and Leeds in the Premier League I think.

"That would be amazing for me and then I'll just see what happens next season for me."

Brighton sit 15th and two points above the dropzone in the Premier League which remains suspended in the ongoing battle against coronavirus.