Former Manchester City and Chelsea star Shaun Wright-Phillips believes Arsenal defender Ben White could surprisingly end up at Chelsea when the transfer window opens next summer.
White, who arrived at the Emirates in 2021 after a £50 million switch from Brighton, was an integral figure in Arsenal’s defence across his first three Premier League campaigns. During that period, he consistently made no fewer than 32 league appearances per season and became one of Mikel Arteta’s most dependable performers.
However, his momentum was disrupted last season when injury forced him out of action, prompting the club to rely on summer signing Jurriën Timber as cover. The Dutchman has since developed into what many now consider the best right-back in the Premier League, leaving White struggling to reclaim his starting position.
Speaking to newsmen, Wright-Phillips suggested that Chelsea could look to capitalise on the situation by bringing the England international to Stamford Bridge, strengthening Enzo Maresca’s defensive options.
“I could see a move for Ben White to Chelsea take place next summer,” Wright-Phillips said. “It makes sense, it’s possible.
“I feel quite sorry for Ben because he had an injury, and he was playing so well for Arsenal. He was unbelievable.
“Then he came back and he’d lost his place to Jurrien Timber, who’s the best right-back in the Premier League. It’s going to take something special to unseat him now,” he added.
Arsenal continued their strong form with a dominant 3-0 victory over Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, extending their lead over the German side to three points. White will now be hoping to force his way back into the starting XI when Arsenal face Chelsea in a high-profile Premier League fixture on Sunday.
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