Arsenal fans have theorised on social media that Ben White could be working to facilitate a move for Jude Bellingham to the Emirates Stadium in the future. It comes after the pair were pictured with one another as part of England's squad photo before they leave the country for the World Cup.
The tournament being hosted in Qatar during the winter compared to the summer has changed many things, such as the fixture schedule as clubs have to take a month-long break for the competition. For the Gunners, it remains to be seen if that will help or hinder their chances this season.
However, at this stage they sit top of the Premier League table and five points clear of Manchester City in second, showing that the early processes of Mikel Arteta's work are paying off. There are still some concerns over the depth of the squad though, with January a potential option to reinforce, while the summer offers another chance to add long-term targets.
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“That’s the squad that we have and we have to try to utilise the squad in the best possible way,” the Arsenal boss reflected after his side were knocked out of the Carabao Cup to Brighton. “We know where we are and we knew the moment we had certain injuries that the squad is already very, very short."
Some areas need addressing more than others, with the right-wing and midfield labelled as particular areas where depth could be improved. While unlikely at this stage, a move for Bellingham could solve their issues in the central ranks while signing one of the top young English talents available.
The 19-year-old is heavily touted with a move away from Borussia Dortmund, with reports that clubs are putting in the ground work to secure a deal. He is currently away on England duty for the World Cup, but his placement in the England photo has created a theory surrounding a move to the Gunners.
Reddit user Aegontargs posted the squad picture before they left for Qatar, pointing out that Arsenal's Ben White was placed right next to the youngster. The caption read: "Agent White on the job already." with most of the fans excited, albeit skeptical, about the possibility of a switch.
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