Aston Villa have Morgan Sanson and Marvelous Nakamba at their disposal, but Steven Gerrard has made it clear that he wants to sign a defensive-midfielder this summer.
One player on their radar is Leeds United’s Kalvin Phillips, a dynamic midfielder who’s adept at turning over possession and protecting his backline. The 26-year-old has an asking price of €70m (£58.8m) which Villa have the resources to match, so
Leeds are desperate to hold on to him, but Kevin Phillips believes the Whites’ struggles in the Premier League this season coupled with all the interest from bigger clubs could see him leave in the coming months.
He told Football Insider: “He’s a superb player. When he’s fully fit, he could slot into any of those top sides, and Leeds United are going to have a real battle on their hands to keep him around.
“I think they’ll be bids flying in for him. There’s no surprise that Villa with Steven Gerrard are in for him. It could be a very tempting move for him. He’d be playing under one of the Premier League’s best midfielders.”
Leeds are currently 16th in the top-flight and recently sacked Marcelo Bielsa for poor performance. United are four points clear of the relegation zone but have an uncertain future, so Phillips may be the first casualty of their demise.
The England international has been linked with Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United, so Villa have their work cut out trying to lure Phillips to the Midlands.
He’s made 226 appearances in all competitions for Leeds, scoring 14 goals with 13 assists, and is a regular for the national team. Phillips is one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League, so it’s easy to see why Villa want him.
Whether their pursuit is successful remains to be seen, however.
