Newcastle United are reportedly ready to go toe-to-toe with several Premier League clubs to sign Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips in the summer transfer window.
The Mail claims that the England international is set to leave Elland Road in the summer with a host of top-flight clubs ready to snap him up.
Champions League chasers West Ham United had a bid of around £55m rejected in January for the midfielder, as the Whites were reluctant to let their prized asset depart during the season.
The 26-year-old has missed the last 13 Premier League games due to a hamstring injury and his return to the Leeds side cannot come soon enough as their top-flight status continues to become more and more precarious.
Phillips hasn’t featured since early December and in his absence, Leeds’s situation has significantly deteriorated which resulted in Marcelo Bielsa departing.
Jesse Marsch has taken the reins but the American has lost both of his opening matches in charge.
Ahead of today’s crunch clash against basement side Norwich City, Leeds sit 16th in the table and are two points above the relegation zone.
The report from the Mail states that the man who has played 19 times under Gareth Southgate is prepared to assess his options at the end of the season ahead of a big money move.
The Magpies showed an interest in Phillips during the winter window, but PIF are well aware that they would face stern competition to secure Phillips’ signature.
But after turning around the Toon Army’s fortunes, Eddie Howe could guide his new club to a top half finish ahead of a big summer window.
Phillips would add steel, depth and quality to Newcastle’s midfield and he could potentially be the perfect partner which allows the Brazilian technician Bruno Guimaraes to become a regular in Howe’s side.
Defensively disciplined and having a wealth of experience playing on the biggest stage for his country, Kalvin Phillips could be a massive statement signing for the Geordies.
Leeds’ number 23 might not want to wait to play European football, but the lure of Newcastle’s ambitious project could sway the Yorkshireman to move to Tyneside.
- NEW! Download the TalkingPoints App, create your own newsfeed and join the conversation
- Ewen Jaouen reveals immediate thoughts on Newcastle United’s training ground after signing
- Kieran Maguire’s verdict on PIF selling Newcastle United after LIV Golf U-turn
- Fabrizio Romano confirms Ewen Jaouen transfer fee as Newcastle United close in
- Progress at last as Newcastle United completely revamp their transfer stance
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
