According to the latest reports from Birmingham Mail, Aston Villa have yet not given up on the signing of Kalvin Phillips. It is believed that Dean Smith is looking for an anchorman who can partner up with John McGinn and Jack Grealish. It had been reported that Leeds United slapped a £30m price tag on the defensive midfielder.
Aston Villa are reluctant to pay that money, but they are ready to return with a bid of £20m for the midfielder. Therefore it would be interesting to see Leeds United’s response when an official bid comes in for Phillips. The midfielder played a crucial role for the Whites last season, and he was even named in the Championship’s team of the season.
What makes Phillips special?
The midfielder had attracted interest from Premier League club Bournemouth as well, and many would agree that he is currently good enough to play in the English top flight. The midfielder played in the deepest role in midfield for the Whites, and he controlled the tempo and dictated play from the deep areas.
His range of passing was impressive as he launched some eye-catching diagonal balls from deep areas. Phillips is extraordinarily comfortable and composed on the ball, and he even filled in as a centre back when required. The Leeds United academy player is also known for his interception and game reading abilities.
The midfielder showed a good understanding of when to press and when to fall back deep to delay the opposition. Therefore Phillips is more than a midfield disruptor as he can form a good base of attack for his side as well as do the nitty gritty job in the middle.
Does Smith need him?
The Villans have lost the services of Glen Whelan and Mile Jedinak who were the two experienced defensive midfielders in the squad. Therefore it is no surprise to see the manager wanting to sign a young long term midfielder for that position.
Is he worth £30m?
£30m might seem a bit too much for a player who is yet to play in the Premier League. However, given that he is English and is a very crucial player for Leeds, we don’t see the Whites relenting on their stance. Aston Villa can probably look at the market outside of England to sign a good defensive midfielder for that kind of money.
If they don’t get anyone, then we think that Phillips would be worth having as he has the potential to be an England international in the future. Recently Aston Villa reportedly slapped a £50m price tag on John McGinn so Phillips can definitely be worth £30m.
