Newcastle United reportedly face competition from Manchester United to sign Kalvin Phillips.
With the Magpies already making plans for the summer, plenty of targets have been linked with a move to St James’ Park. According to the Daily Mail, the Leeds star is one of multiple midfield options the club are looking at.
However, Newcastle might have to edge out Man United if they’re to bring Phillips to the North East.
According to the Manchester Evening News, the Red Devils are working on a deal to bring the 26-year-old to Old Trafford.
Phillips is a wanted man this summer, with Leeds reportedly hoping their academy graduate will sign a new contract. It will take a huge fee to sign him, with The i reporting he will cost around £60million.
It will be difficult for Newcastle to beat Man United in this transfer race, but rivalry might give the Magpies an advantage.
Man United’s rivalry with Leeds could help Newcastle land Kalvin Phillips
Manchester United will likely be able to offer Phillips something he hasn’t experienced before – European football.
Whether it’s the Champions League or the Europa League, Man United are still in the mix to qualify. In contrast, Newcastle are nowhere near qualifying for Europe.
That could entice Phillips, who would also be joining the Red Devils at an interesting time given the fact they’re set to appoint a new manager.
However, perhaps rivalry could put the midfielder off. Leeds and Manchester United do not get on. They are fierce rivals.
As a local lad, will Phillips risk ruining his Leeds reputation by heading to Old Trafford? It certainly didn’t go down well when Alan Smith made the same move.
In contrast, a move to Newcastle would be far less controversial. That could give Eddie Howe an unlikely edge in this intriguing transfer battle.
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