Aston Villa set to pounce for Kalvin Phillips as new contract talks with Leeds United stall
By Sam Collins
Kalvin Phillips was one of the standout players in Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds United side but has struggled to make an impact since Jesse March’s appointment.
However, The Telegraph reports that contract talks have stalled with the Englishman subject to interest from other clubs.
Aston Villa are looking to take advantage of that as they prepare to launch a £60million bid for the end of the season, after having a bid for Yves Bissouma rejected.
The 26-year-old has suffered from a hamstring injury that has kept him out for a large part of this season, with the midfielder only making his return to the pitch in yesterday’s 1-1 draw with Southampton.
At his best Phillips is arguably the most important player in the Leeds side and he has clearly been missed this season but with injuries plaguing him and his desire to head to the World Cup in Qatar, a move may be on the cards.
The Mirror reported on 30 March that contract talks with Raphinha have also been paused with Barcelona trying to sign him.
An anchor in midfield
Aston Villa are in a challenge for the top eight and the back four is a solid Premier League defence with few issues. However, it’s the midfield where the Villans could strengthen with their loss yesterday coming from problems in midfield.
Both John McGinn and Jacob Ramsey have secured themselves spots in the midfield three with Morgan Sanson and Douglas Luiz being rotated in the last few fixtures, yet that midfield is still lacking a core element, an anchor-man.
Youngster Ramsey wants to go forward whenever he can and although McGinn can provide defensive output his aggressive nature and passing ability has him more inclined as a box-to-box type.
This is where a defensive-minded midfielder like £25,000-a-week [Times] Phillips, with a progressive passing range ability to cover all areas of the pitch would suit Aston Villa and the reported £60million price tag won’t break the bank.
In other Leeds United news, a journalist has shared what he’s been told about a “done deal” for Raphinha to leave.