Everton are setting their sights on a major defensive signing this summer, with Arsenal's Ben White emerging as a top target. But here's the catch: the 28-year-old defender is willing to risk it all on a promise from Mikel Arteta. According to former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown, White's decision hinges entirely on playing time guarantees, not money or a fresh start elsewhere.

The versatile defender wants clarity from Arteta on whether he'll remain a key starter or slip into a rotation role behind Jurrien Timber. So far this season, White has made 30 appearances, starting 23 and logging 1,880 minutes—solid numbers for a squad player, but likely frustrating for someone of his caliber who's used to being a mainstay.

White joined Arsenal from Brighton in 2021 for around £50 million and quickly proved his worth across both right-back and center-back—two positions Everton desperately need to reinforce. His reliability and tactical discipline made him a staple in the Gunners' lineup for years. However, a serious medial knee ligament injury, confirmed after Sunday's win at West Ham, has now sidelined him for the rest of the season, throwing a major wrench into his summer plans.

Brown weighed in on the situation: "It's a difficult one with Ben White. If Arsenal win the Premier League title, as I believe they will, and the Champions League as well, why would he want to leave being part of that squad? The only possible reason is if he thinks he's not going to get much playing time. He's been back in the side recently when Timber has been injured, but when he comes back, will he drop back down to being a rotation option again?"

He added: "That's something he will have to speak to Mikel Arteta about to seek some assurances, because Arsenal are going to need to have a big squad. If he's going to be part of that squad, then I find it difficult to imagine him leaving Arsenal. But if he's going to be playing a bit-part role there and wants to move on, Everton would be a very good destination for him, and he would fit in well."

For Everton fans, landing a proven Premier League defender like White would be a massive statement of intent. But with his injury and loyalty to Arsenal hanging in the balance, the Toffees may need to wait on Arteta's answer before making their move.