Leeds United are on course to securing a move to the Premier League for the first time in over a decade. They have achieved their success on the back of playing some eye-catching football. Marcelo Bielsa has managed to bring the best out of the limited options he has had, and without any major surgery to the squad, the Whites are in the driving seat at the moment.
It is no surprise that certain Leeds United players are attracting some interest from top-flight clubs. Latest reports from the Birmingham Mail indicates that Bournemouth are preparing a £25m swoop for two Leeds United players. The Cherries value Kalvin Phillips at £15m and Jack Clarke at £10m and Eddie Howe see them as ideal summer arrivals.
Bournemouth have a policy of snapping up young British players, and that has served them well in the last few years. Not too long ago reports came out that Southampton would put in a £20m bid for Kalvin Phillips alone.
How has Phillips been critical?
The English midfielder plays as a defensive midfielder, and his on the ball qualities allow him to play as a deep-lying playmaker. Apart from that, he can do the nitty gritty job in midfield well as the 23-year-old showcases impressive defensive strengths to his game.
How has Jack Clarke been integral for the Whites?
The youngster broke into the team when he was just 17 and played some impressive cameos after coming from the bench. The winger has a remarkable pace and is fearless in his approach as he doesn’t shy away from taking on defenders. Clarke has immense potential, and the fact that heavyweight clubs like Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City have been linked with him is a testament to his talent.
A worrying sign for Leeds United?
As long as Leed United can make it to the Premier League, we feel that they should be able to hold on to their key players. However, there is no doubt that they need to get someone like Kalvin Phillips on an improved contract given the season he has had so far at Elland Road.
At any other Premier League club, Phillips and Clarke might have struggled to get game time, but Eddie Howe has shown as a manager that he is willing to give youngsters a go in the first team. Nevertheless, we still feel that their best development would happen at the West Yorkshire outfit under Marcelo Bielsa. Once they move to the Premier League, the club should be able to hold on to their key players.
