Real Madrid are reportedly set to closely monitor Leeds United’s English midfielder Kalvin Phillips throughout the ongoing UEFA Euro 2020.
According to a report from Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Real Madrid are set to keep close tabs on the progress of Leeds United midfielder and England international Kalvin Phillips after being left impressed by his performance in the ongoing UEFA Euro 2020.
Phillips, a product of the Leeds United academy, has been one of their most important players under Marcelo Bielsa. The 25-year-old played an integral role in the Whites’ return to the Premier League after a long 16-year wait, and upon arriving in the top-flight, the midfielder looked like he had been playing at this level throughout his career.
Indeed, Phillips emerged as one of the finest young midfielders in the 2020/21 Premier League campaign, as he racked up 29 appearances scoring one goal and setting up two more. His progress at Elland Road compelled England manager Gareth Southgate to hand him his debut in September last year, from which point on he has been a regular feature for the Three Lions.
Phillips, thus far, has accrued nine caps for the England national team and was picked for the UEFA Euro 2020 as well, where he has already made his presence felt. The Leeds United star was the Three Lions’ best payer on display as they eked out a 1-0 win over Croatia in their opening Group D encounter on Sunday, setting up the only goal of the game while generally bossing the midfield battle against Luka Modric.
This display has made one of the biggest clubs on the planet, Real Madrid, sit up and take notice. At this point, it is no secret that Los Blancos, back under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, are looking for reinforcements in the middle of the park. The aforementioned Modric is fast approaching the end of his illustrious career at the highest level, whereas Toni Kroos is also into his thirties.
In addition, Real Madrid haven’t had a backup for Casemiro for years now and need to address the issue as the Brazilian closes in on his thirties as well. Throw in the uncertain futures of players like Dani Ceballos and Isco, and it is not hard to see why the Merengues are scouring the market for midfield additions, with Sassuolo’s Manuel Locatelli emerging as a top target for Ancelotti & co.
However, Phillips has also registered on Real Madrid’s radar now after his fine performance over the weekend. The Spanish capital club are now set to scout him extensively over the course of the tournament, having been impressed by the 25-year-old’s ability to break up play, physicality and the quality that he offers on the ball.
The report goes on to add that Phillips’ current value is close to €30 million, which is only likely to rise further if he builds on his display against Croatia in the coming weeks. Given that he is contracted with Leeds till the summer of 2024, they are under no pressure to sell either. So, it remains to be seen if Real Madrid move for the 25-year-old or look at other alternatives such as Nicolo Barella of Inter Milan.