thought something similar, Its unresolved, until he signs new contract or unless he leaves, yeah I know, we have 2 years left + option, but its awkward all round and nobody really knows whats going on.
Despite all the protestations that White wants to leave, it very well might be simply, that White doesn't want the vitriol of signing to soon or being shown to be all smiles on the south coast (which I'm sure he would be).
He's just had his best season, he's loved up there, and their fans are doing all they can to try and get force the move. Sign bumper new contract right now with Brighton, or lots of happy training photos, we know how theyre going to react, "money grabbing scumbag", "judas ****" etc.
Keep him out of the public eye, let them move on with their next choice CB options to the point they accept its over for White, then announce new deal and include White a touch more in the club photos...... Its a helluva lot of pressure on a 22 year old. Their fans will turn toxic and abusive very quickly if he's not protected.
This makes complete sense, agree. And is likely the conclusion of a man like GP and his emotional intelligence.