Swansea’s Flynn Downes shares view on potential replacement of Kalvin Phillips at Leeds United
Swansea’s Flynn Downes has insisted that he is not looking to leave amid suggestions that Leeds United are lining him up to replace Kalvin Phillips.
The Times reported last month (20 March) that the Whites were considering the 23-year-old should the star England midfielder make a big-money move to Aston Villa.
But after the manager in South Wales, Russell Martin, expressed how strongly he wanted to keep the ex-Ipswich player, Downes himself has reaffirmed his commitment to his current side, predicting a “scary” side can win the Championship title next season.
The midfielder responded to the United speculation, saying (via BBC Sport): “It’s football and anything can happen, but I love it here and I am happy here.
“I have high hopes for what we can achieve next year so I am not thinking about anything else.
“I have always said playing in the Premier League is the dream, I really want to do that.
“I am really happy here, I have just bought a house down here and am getting settled.
“I am loving my football. I love everything about this place, the coaches, the players, the staff, the area.”
Door closed, almost
It doesn’t sound like anyone at the other end of a potential deal are putting much stock in the idea of Downes coming to Elland Road.
But his manager did acknowledge he would be sought after, telling Wales Online: “I wouldn’t have thought they’re [Leeds] the only team looking at him.”
He surely would want to keep hold of a key member of his first-team, as the England under-20 international has made 35 appearances for him this season.
Having only arrived at Swansea this season it doesn’t look like he had another move planned any time soon, but that could change if the right offer came in.
He would certainly be affordable for Andrea Radrizzani, and by all accounts will be a Premier League level player.
If Victor Orta and Jesse Marsch deem him to be the right profile of player and stump up the money then he surely wouldn’t be beyond reach.
But so much hinges on Phillips’ future for now, as if he leaves the need to fill the central area will be vastly heightened, and the financial might to do so will also.
In other Leeds United news, one of the incumbents in central midfield could be one of the first out the door as he appears unhappy with Marsch.