Leeds United could be on the verge of signing ‘huge’ Phillips replacement – pundit
Alan Hutton has admitted Leeds United face a “huge” task in trying to replace Kalvin Phillips ahead of a possible summer move.
The former Scotland defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, admitted the Whites have to be prepared in case the 26-year-old does leave Elland Road.
As reported by the Daily Mail on Monday (28 March), the Whites are keeping close tabs on Manchester United midfielder James Garner, currently on loan at Nottingham Forest, with a view to a summer move.
The Red Devils would reportedly consider selling the 21-year-old permanently.
Hutton insisted Garner could be a “good fit” to take Phillips’ place.
He suggested “big teams” would be sniffing around Leeds’ homegrown hero.
Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “I think you always have to be looking forward, just in case. You never know what’s around the corner.
“I think Kalvin Phillips has got a level now where a lot of the big teams are looking at him. He’s an international now, he’s going from strength to strength.
“I think you have to be wary of what’s going on round about him. You need to do your homework: ‘Who can we bring in? Who’s got the potential to fill that role and be just as good?’
“I think Garner at Forest has done really well. I’ve watched a few of their games and he does fit that fill.
“Huge, huge boots to fill, to be honest. It’s a difficult one but he’s young, hungry and willing to prove himself. He could be a good fit for Leeds.”
Garner has played seven times for Manchester United’s senior side to date.
He has netted three goals and contributed six assists in 36 appearances for Forest this term.
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