Manchester City have been linked with a move for Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips recently and he could be a superb addition to Pep Guardiola’s side should he make the move to the Etihad this summer.
What’s the word?
According to Tutto Juve, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Juventus are all keen on the England international this summer after his impressive debut campaign in the Premier League.
The 25-year-old is contracted at Elland Road until 2024 and is currently valued at £27m, which puts Marcelo Bielsa’s side in a strong position when it comes to keeping the midfielder at the Yorkshire club this summer.
Should Man City sign Phillips?
Yes
No
Would he be a good signing for Man City?
The midfielder, who is a graduate of the academy at Leeds United, showcased his ability with a man of the match performance in England’s opening game victory against Croatia in the European Championships recently and has earned the nickname ‘the Yorkshire Pirlo’ due to his ability to dictate games from deep in Bielsa’s side in recent seasons.
Last season saw the Englishman make 29 appearances in the Premier League, in which he contributed one goal and three assists, averaging a solid 7.01 rating from WhoScored for his performances.
Phillips’ former teammate at Leeds, Alex Mowatt, was full of praise for the England star earlier in the season, saying:
“I’m so happy for him. He’s done unbelievable.”
“Since Bielsa came in he’s been ridiculous. He’s got Leeds promoted as well and rightly so he’s been called up to the England squad.”
In their first season back in the top-flight, Bielsa’s side outran every other side in the league and Phillips’ energy would surely be appreciated by Pep Guardiola at City should he make the move to the Etihad this summer.
With next season likely to be Fernandinho’s last, the Englishman could fill a hole in midfield left by the Brazilian and could compliment Rodri well in games where Guardiola wants to take a more defensive approach.
Therefore, sporting director Txiki Begiristain should definitely consider signing Phillips this summer, as it seems as if he is only going to get better after his impressive performances for club and country in the past year.
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