It has emerged that Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips is attracting serious interest from Aston Villa this summer, with Dean Smith readying a £14m bid for a player that’s high on his list of transfer targets ahead of a Premier League return.

Leeds lost out in the play-offs that Aston Villa eventually won last month, which has left the Whites in a vulnerable position in terms of the future of some of their players.

According to a Telegraph report, Villa want Phillips to boost their defensive midfield options in wake of Glenn Whelan and Mile Jedinak moving on. The report states that a £14m bid will be launched for Phillips, but Leeds are prepared to demand £20m for the 23-year-old.

Phillips enjoyed a tremendous season under Marcelo Bielsa in the Championship, transforming himself into one of the division’s best holding midfield player.

The Elland Road academy graduate featured in 44 Championship fixtures, scoring one goal and registering three assists, surpassing 100 appearances for his boyhood club.

Currently, Phillips’ deal runs until 2021, but various reports have stated that Leeds plan to offer the Bielsa favourite fresh terms on the back of an improved season.

The Verdict

It’s little surprise that Phillips is attracting this kind of interest from the Premier League, and it is a serious worry that he could be on his way out of Elland Road.

£14m might not be enough, but should Aston Villa persist with their pursuit of Phillips, Leeds’ arm might well be twisted, which would be a significant blow heading into next season.

For Aston Villa, partnering Phillips with Jack Grealish and John McGinn in the midfield next season would be an exciting prospect after the trio’s impact in the Championship last season.

Thoughts? Let us know!