Leeds United are back where they belong.

As one of English football's biggest names, the Whites are deserving of a spot in the Premier League where they can rub shoulders with the elite week in, week out.

Unfortunately for them the football league doesn't work like that.

The Yorkshire side have spent 16 long years outside of the top flight, but with Marcelo Bielsa at the wheel they're hoping to kick on and prove themselves at the highest level once again.

If Leeds are to do that then strengthening in the transfer market is an absolute must.

Many players have been linked with a move to Elland Road of late, but none more than Ben White.

The 22-year-old enjoyed a stunning season on loan with Bielsa's side last term, but as one of Brighton's players the south coast side have high hopes for their young star.

Leeds are said to have had a £22million offer for White rejected by the Seagulls, but according to Whites' favourite Noel Whelan, the club may be plotting another move.

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Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan said: “He has had one season in the Championship.

“Brighton were not even bothered before that. They are holding Ben White to ransom because of one good season.

“A great football player but it is not like he has been playing in the top flight, where you can command a fee like Nathan Ake. Right now, £22million for a player they have not even used is a good deal. It is a fair price for everybody. They need to be realistic.

“I am sure Ben White would love to come to Leeds United and carry on where he left off this year. He feels settled at the club, he likes the lads at the club.

“We need Ben White. It might be a case of an initial £22million and we rise it to £27million if we stay in the Premier League – that could be a goer. That might be tempting to them.”

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GIVEMESPORT'S Phil Spencer says...

It's understandable that Leeds United want to sign Ben White, but they have to sign him for the right price.

While the defender looks set to have a bright future in the game, the last thing that Marcelo Bielsa's side want is to be held to ransom over a deal for the Brighton man.

White has no experience in the Premier League, and so it is likely to be a big learning curve for him this season.

To pay such a substantial amount for the player could be a big gamble, and one that Leeds need to weigh up.

After all, there could be more affordable options out there.