Aston Villa could beat ‘big six’ to ‘superb’ Kalvin Phillips deal after source’s £60m+ news – pundit
Kevin Phillips has suggested an Aston Villa move could be “very tempting” for Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips.
The former Claret and Blue striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 26-year-old is “very capable of playing for a big six club”.
According to The Athletic (9 March), Phillips has been “discussed at board level” ahead of the summer window, with the Aston Villa coaching staff and recruitment team keen to make a move for the Leeds United star.
The report claims the England international will become an “immediate target” if the Whites are relegated from the Premier League this term.
The 26-year-old, who is contracted until 2024, has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since December 2021.
A Leeds source has told Football Insider that the club value Phillips at over £60million.
Phillips claimed the influence of Steven Gerrard could persuade the midfielder to make a Villa Park move.
“He’s very capable of playing for those big six clubs, there’s no doubt about it,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“He’s a superb player but he’s struggled with injury this season – which could be a concern for any interested club.
“I think when he’s fully fit, he could slot into any of those top sides, and Leeds United are going to have a real battle on their hands to keep him around.
“The only saving grace is that he loves the club, and you’d think that he would want to help them stay in the Premier League.
“I think they’ll be bids flying in for him. There’s no surprise that Villa with Steven Gerrard are in for him.
“It could be a very tempting move for him. He’d be playing under one of the Premier League’s best midfielders.”
In other news, pundit claims Aston Villa are facing “problem” behind-the-scenes after transfer update.