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Journalist reacts as Phil Hay issues update on Leeds United transfer links to Liverpool defender Nat Phillips
Rousing the Kop journalist James Brooke has reacted as Phil Hay shared an update on the Leeds United pursuit of Liverpool defender Nat Phillips.
The Athletic journalist wrote on 4 July that the Whites will have to shell out a £10million fee in order to secure the services of the 26-year-old.
Phillips has been on loan at Stuttgart and Bournemouth but the Reds appear to be open to cashing in on his services.
Brooke told Leeds United News [10 July], “This time last year, I’d have said Phillips is easily worth £10m. Still young, Premier League, Champions League and Championship experience. Even a bargain. But after barely playing, it now looks a little steep.
“I’d say Leeds are getting a good deal. A good move. As an honest, Northern lad, I see the fans identifying with him, even if his style may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Not a sexy signing, but every squad benefits with a Nat Phillips.”
Need a discount
Leeds cannot afford to be spending that kind of money on a player that’s not been particularly convincing in both his loan spells.
They need someone who’ll walk in and be someone who’ll certainly strengthen the playing eleven, which he could, but there are no guarantees.
The club would rather have Charlie Cresswell along with Pascal Struijk if the stays at the club as their first-choice option.
Cresswell proved that he’s capable of performing in the Championship as he shined on loan at Millwall and could do the same at Elland Road next season.
If Leeds can bring down the asking rate for Phillips, then a deal can be done as they’ve got a lot of players leaving on loan and there’s no real money coming in from their exits.
It’s going to be a tricky few weeks for the Whites and Daniel Farke as they look to get the right balance in order to secure promotion at the first time of asking.
In other Leeds United news, the club have been handed a boost to sign a Manchester United player this summer with Erik ten Hag likely to sanction his exit.