Chelsea are planning a surprise January move for Brighton defender Ben White.

The Sun says Frank Lampard's scouts are raving about the 22-year-old Brighton centre-half, who is starring on loan at high-flying Leeds this season.

Lamps will make a big offer for White as he looks for an extra defender now Chelsea have been cleared to spend after their Fifa transfer ban was cut.

White has been a huge hit for Leeds with his skilful, ice-cool displays as they storm the Championship.

Chelsea have been watching him regularly and insiders reveal they are convinced he is worth buying — and is the main alternative to former Blue Nathan Ake at Bournemouth.