West Bromwich Albion’s chances of landing Brighton defender Shane Duffy appear to have come to a halt.
The clubs have started talks on a proposed move to The Hawthorns.
Brighton are currently open to bids for the Republic of Ireland national team, but that position is likely to change if the club is forced to part ways with coveted center-back Ben White.
Leeds United boss Marcelo Bilelsa wants the 22-year-old to return to Elland Road, after excelling on loan last season, and has already had two offers rejected.
Premier League champions Liverpool have been credited with a strong interest in White, widely regarded as the league’s best defender last season.
And now Chelsea are rumored to have thrown their hat in the ring for the former Southampton trainee.
The Sun states that Frank Lampard is also a huge fan and that the Blues will make it a three way battle for White’s signing.
Not only that, they say Chelsea are ready to splash into the region of £ 40 million to land White, nearly double the second £ 22 million offer from Leeds.
Brighton have plenty of center-back options with new signing Joel Veltman complimenting Lewis Dunk and Adam Webster, Graham Potter’s first choice duo last term.
But Potter, who made 47 appearances for the Baggies between 1997 and 2000, won’t allow Duffy and White to leave, unless he can field another center-back to bring his tally to four.
Baggies boss Slaven Bilic believes Duffy can add the aggression and Premier League experience his backline will need next season.
But if a replacement for Duffy, who is also attracting West Ham interest, doesn’t emerge and White almost inevitably leaves, Bilic may have to look elsewhere.
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