Fichajes has recently reported that Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is eyeing a move for Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips next summer. It is understood that the Mancunian outfit have identified the English midfield ace as an ideal replacement for Fernandinho whose contract at the Etihad Stadium expires at the end of this campaign.
Phillips’ Impressive Rise To Prominence At Elland Road
Phillips has done well to establish himself as a consistent performer in Marcelo Bielsa’s midfield. He has grown into a class act at Elland Road over the past 12 months. The England international featured in 31 matches for the Whites last season, finding the back of the net once and picking up three assists on all fronts.
The 25-year-old proved himself to be an influential presence at the centre of the park after he averaged 2.6 tackles, 1.6 interceptions, 1.7 clearances, 0.5 shots, 1.2 key passes and 0.7 dribbles per 90 minutes in the 2020-21 Premier League campaign. He has even been excellent when distributing possession in the final third, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 84.7% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Phillips is under contract at the West Yorkshire club until the summer of 2024, so it would take a big-money offer for Man City to stand a chance of luring the Leeds United star to the Etihad Stadium at the end of this season.
What Will Phillips Add To Pep Guardiola’s Side?
Phillips doesn’t mind getting stuck in with a few solid tackles to hamper the opposition’s rhythm in the game. He has also got the hunger to earn the ball back for his side and can offer some decent protection for his teammates at the back.
The Three Lions star has also got a good passing range and can create some decent opportunities for others around him going forward. He can even use his strength to dominate the opposition physically at the centre of the park.
Phillips ticks all the right in terms of what Guardiola looks for in his holding midfielders. He will also serve as an ideal successor to Fernandinho, who is currently in the last legs of his Man City career, in the coming seasons.
We can expect Phillips to add more quality and depth to Guardiola’s midfield department. Plus, the Whites midfielder is good enough to rival Rodri for a starting spot at the Etihad over the next few years. At 25, Phillips’ best years are ahead of him, so Man City could get the best out of him in the not-too-distant future if they manage to get him on board next summer.
