Kalvin Phillips is likely going to be the first name on the teamsheet for Leeds United in the upcoming season. However, there have been a lot of speculations about his future as the midfielder is drawing interest from various quarters including the Premier League clubs.
Aston Villa have seemingly given up on the race for the midfielder despite once being considered as the prime contender to sign the Englishman. However, according to former Leeds United striker and BBC commentator Noel Whelan, Wolves are now said to be keen on the midfielder.
Update from Whelan
Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan said, ”Right now, it looks like the offer Leeds have made to him is not enough. I’m hearing there is plenty of interest in Phillips. Wolves are in the background ready to move, Bournemouth are there. Aston Villa were very keen but look like they have given up as Douglas Luiz is coming from Manchester City. It could be down to Wolves and Bournemouth.”
Whelan also gave an update on the contract situation of the midfielder. Leeds United Chief Executive Angus Kinnear has confirmed that the Whites are in talks over a new contract. But Whelan believes that the offer made by the club right now is not enough.
Why Are Wolves more dangerous than Aston Villa?
The West Midland club finished 8th last season and are set to play in the Europa League qualifiers as well. Nuno Santo’s side have shown big ambition in the transfer market in the last few years, and the results are also there to see on the pitch. The club has the financial backing to lure someone like Phillips. The Whites had kept a price tag of £30m on the midfielder, and that had seemingly put Villa off.
However, if Wolves feel like they need to get Phillips, then they can spend that kind of money. Moreover, they have an ageing Joao Moutinho in midfield alongside Ruben Neves so the club might be looking for a long term replacement for the Portuguese midfielder.
What now for Leeds?
The club needs to tie the 23-year-old to a new contract. If it means making Phillips the best-paid player at the club, then the Whites shouldn’t be hesitant in doing that. The midfielder showed his class last season as he was influential in the defensive midfield role where he almost played as a deep-lying playmaker.
The Englishman was even named in Championship’s team of the season. There are not many players in the division who can do what Phillips did in the previous season. So even with money in hand, the Whites might find it tough to replace him. Therefore the club should look to keep hold of Phillips this summer, no matter the cost.
