Steven Gerrard reportedly wants Kalvin Phillips in a big move to break into the top-six of the Premier League next season.
According to The Times, Aston Villa have emerged as the front-runners for the signing of Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips in the summer transfer window. The English international could leave Leeds to fulfil his domestic and European ambitions and is attracting significant interest ahead of the summer.
Kalvin Phillips is a rare commodity when it comes to a central midfielder. The player, who came through the ranks at Leeds, has performed admirably throughout his career at Elland Road. He played a key role in the Whites earning promotion back to the Premier League and has taken to the top-flight like duck to water.
A host of top Premier League clubs are keeping tabs on Phillips, with each likely to approach in the summer transfer window to enquire about his availability. However, the midfielder is still in two minds about leaving Leeds, as a report in late December claimed he had requested a new deal at Elland Road.
West Ham tested the waters with a massive £55 million bid in January, which Leeds United reportedly rejected. The Yorkshire-based club may eventually consider selling their star midfielder if a much higher offer were to arrive.
Aston Villa have now reportedly emerged as the front-runners for the 26-year-old’s signature, as Steven Gerrard eyes serious investments in the summer to add more quality to his squad.
Aston Villa are floating in midtable, with their ambitions going as far as finishing in the top half this season. Gerrard is already planning for next season and believes the club should sign players that could help close the gap to the top-six of the Premier League. Hence, Villa are interested in Phillips and are planning for a summer move.
Despite spending the Jack Grealish money on quality signings, Aston Villa have not been given the required boost to break into European places this season. Gerrard reportedly believes a player like Phillips could help them achieve their goals next season, and he has thus urged the club to break the bank for the 26-year-old England international.
Aston Villa tried their best to bring in a new midfielder in the winter. At one point, they were heavily linked with Rodrigo Bentancur, who ended up at Tottenham. This shows Gerrard’s planning and need for a player who could provide a new dimension to their style of play.
Considering the widespread interest from some of the biggest clubs in the country, Aston Villa might find it hard to land Phillips. He could join the likes of Liverpool or Manchester United, who are also interested, and aim for instant success, rather than Gerrard’s side, who have miles to go before breaking into the European places, let alone winning a trophy.
