Arsenal’s Ben White considers summer exit amid transfer interest

Ben White, the versatile defender who has been a fixture in Arsenal’s backline for the better part of five years, is reportedly open to leaving the club this summer. The condition: any offer needs to align with his sporting ambitions.

White still has two years left on his Arsenal contract, which runs until June 2028. That gives the Gunners leverage in negotiations, but it also means the clock is ticking on maximizing his transfer value.

The Everton connection and what Arsenal wants

Reports from multiple UK football outlets have linked White with a move to Everton during the summer 2026 transfer window. Arsenal reportedly blocked any January departure, keeping the door firmly shut during the winter window, but is open to a sale in summer.

White’s estimated market value currently sits at around €42 million, a notable decline from the £50 million Arsenal paid Brighton to sign him back in July 2021.

White’s Arsenal tenure and England return

White arrived at the Emirates in the summer of 2021, part of Mikel Arteta’s broader squad overhaul. His adaptability became one of his defining traits, operating as a center-back, right-back, and even in midfield when called upon.

On the international front, White last appeared for the Three Lions in 2022. A reported call-up in March 2026 may have reignited his international profile, which could in turn affect how clubs evaluate him this summer.

What this means for Arsenal’s strategy

From a financial perspective, selling White would represent a loss on the original £50 million investment if the €42 million valuation holds, roughly a 16% depreciation in transfer fee terms over five years.

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