Ben White signs long-term contract extension at Arsenal - 'Our supporters love him, we love him'

Ben White has committed his future to Arsenal by signing a new "long-term contract" believed to last until the summer of 2028, with the option of a further year.

The England defender has established himself as Mikel Arteta’s first-choice right-back, after impressing with Brighton & Hove Albion as part of a back three ahead of his £50m move in June 2021.

White has made 122 appearances for Arsenal since then and provided both assists in Saturday’s late 2-1 victory over Brentford, which means they go into the international break as the Premier League leaders.

He has also played a big part in the club's dramatic progression to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

"Ben is a key player for us, a top professional with a winning mentality, and one of the guys who leads by example every day,” Arteta told the club’s website.

“Ben’s ability, determination and positive attitude are so important, but he is also a great character and human being. We all look forward to continue working with Ben in the coming years."

After he was released by Southampton as a youngster, White joined Brighton, spending time on loan at Newport County, Peterborough United and Leeds United before establishing himself as a regular under then Albion boss Graham Potter in the 2020/21 season.

He has been picked in England squads but has not been selected since returning home from the World Cup in Qatar, for reasons neither manager Gareth Southgate or White have gone into detail about.

"We are so happy to have completed a new long-term contract with Ben,” said Arsenal sporting director, Edu.

“Since Ben joined us, his contribution and commitment have been of such high quality.

"Our supporters love him, we love him and we look forward to enjoying Ben’s performances with us for years to come."

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