Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard may play role in Kalvin Phillips Leeds United exit
Steven Gerrard being Aston Villa boss could reportedly convince Kalvin Phillips to leave Leeds United in the summer.
According to Eurosport journalist Dean Jones, Phillips wants certain things to fit to convince him to leave Elland Road.
Per a report in The Times, Gerrard’s side has emerged as favourites to sign the 25-year-old and are willing to pay £60million for him.
Jones told Give Me Sport, “I think if Kalvin Phillips were to leave Leeds, he would be looking for certain aspects to fit what he’s looking for.
“Aston Villa have got Steven Gerrard and that, obviously, is a massive positive for them in terms of persuading him.
“They’re going to be pushing for European football from this point on and that’s the aim, so that’ll suit him.”
On his way out?
Villa realistically are unlikely to play in the Champions League for the next two or three seasons.
If Phillips aspires to play at the summit of the European game, then a move to Villa Park may not fancy him.
He will be aware that the likes of Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool are on the lookout for central midfielders.
Phillips, at 26, is arguably in his peak and has proven himself in the toughest league in the world.
Pep Guardiola is someone who loves technical players and the Leeds ace would be a dream signing for him.
Also, the fact that Raphinha seems poised for a summer exit means the club will be reluctant to lose its two best players in the same transfer window.