Tutto Juve has recently reported that Manchester City are facing stiff competition for Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips this summer. It has been revealed that Pep Guardiola’s side could rival Juventus, Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign the England international during this summer transfer window (via Tutto Juve).
Phillips’ Brilliant Campaign In English Football
Phillips experienced a fruitful season at Elland Road as he grew into a top performer under Marcelo Bielsa’s tutelage over the past ten months. The 25-year-old registered one goal and two assists in 30 matches for the Whites in the previous campaign in various competitions.
The English sensation proved himself to be a useful presence at the centre of the park by averaging 2.6 tackles, 1.6 interceptions, 1.7 clearances, 0.5 shots, 1.2 key passes and 0.7 dribbles per game in the Premier League last season. He even spread the ball well from midfield based on his pass success rate of 84.7% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Phillips has developed into a great two-way player in English football which explains why Man City, along with other top clubs, are showing interest in securing his services this summer. At 25, the best is yet to come from the Leeds midfield ace, so Guardiola can expect to get the best out of him in the coming seasons.
Should Man City Get Phillips On Board This Summer?
Phillips can influence the game at both ends of the field. He is full of energy and running at the centre of the park and can get stuck in with a few tackles to secure the ball back for his team. The nine-time England international has got good defensive awareness and can make some important clearances at the back. He is also a decent passer of the ball and can chip in with the odd goal or assist every now and then.
Guardiola would be wise to engineer a move to get Phillips on board in this off-season as he will strengthen his midfield department for the next campaign. The Leeds star is entering his prime and could serve as an ideal successor to Fernandinho at the Etihad Stadium.
We can also expect Phillips to increase competition for places with Guardiola’s match-day squad. All in all, Man City should do everything they can to lure the Three Lions midfielder to the northwest of England as he could help them maintain their stranglehold in domestic football in the years to come.
