Leeds have reportedly shown an interest in Stoke's Ryan Woods, according to The Sun journalist Alan Nixon.

He is being lined up as a potential replacement for Kalvin Phillips, who has reportedly rejected a contract offer from the club amid interest from Aston Villa.

Woods only made a permanent move to Stoke in January for a reported £7m fee, but after a mediocre season in which he failed to put his stamp on the Stoke midfield, Nathan Jones could allow him to leave.

Here, our FLW Six Point Opinion looks at the potential move and if he would be an adequate replacement for Phillips.

What type of player is he?

"Much like Phillips, he is a defensive midfielder whose main role in the midfield is to protect the back four.

"He covers a lot of ground, is strong in the tackle and makes a number of interceptions to break up play, so he could be the ideal Phillips replacement.

"As well as that he provides a base for attacks, taking the ball from his defence and playing it across the midfield and to the forwards. He should flourish in a Bielsa team which prefer possession-based football."

Is he good enough for a promotion-chasing side?

"Woods showed he is a high-quality player at Championship level since joining Brentford, and whilst he isn't at the same level of Phillips he would still be very effective in winning the ball back for his new team.

"If he can fulfil that role and help to squash potential danger then Leeds shouldn't concede too many and that should enable them to win most of their games.

"With Bielsa's guidance he is only likely to improve too and if he grows in confidence then he should start to deliver on a consistent basis, which would make him a very astute signing."

Why did he stutter at Stoke after impressing at Brentford?

"Many players struggled at Stoke last season and the change in manager added to the upheaval, making it difficult for players like Woods to find form.

"As well as that, Jones' formation didn't really suit Woods, as he was restricted in the type of passes he was able to make, as neither Benik Afobe nor Sam Vokes are strikers who like to run in behind.

"At Leeds his main role will be to break up play and restrict opposition chances. Leeds have several midfielders with great passing ability so there will be less responsibility on Woods to perform in that area."

Is he good enough to replace Phillips?

"It is a big challenge and one that not many players would fancy facing, but Woods arriving would alleviate the blow more than most.

"Phillips is so good due to his combination of energy and intelligence. Like Phillips, Woods is able to read the game really well and his positional awareness allows him to snuff out danger, but Phillips is able to do it more often due to his pace and stamina.

"Whilst Woods won't match the man he could replace he is more than good enough to fulfil the same role, and Leeds should do just as well with him in the side, particularly as they have strengthened other areas.

Does he have the potential to be a Premier League player?

"Prior to last season Woods improved season after season, and seamlessly transitioned to the step up to the Championship in 2015 after arriving from Shrewsbury following an impressive year in League Two.

"If he can rediscover his form and confidence he should display his qualities once more. If he can improve his passing range and accuracy then he will tick a lot of boxes for an all-round midfielder and make him better suited to the top-tier.

"Bielsa too should have a positive influence over his game. He has improved the performances of several Leeds players since arriving and his style should suit Woods, just as it has got the best out of Phillips."

What does he offer that Leeds' current midfielders lack?

"Woods is capable defensively and going forward, and his passing can be key to unlocking defences at times, although he only has 10 assists in the Championship.

"Without Phillips Leeds lack a holding midfielder capable of winning the ball back. Woods would offer physicality in the middle of the pitch and the determination to win the ball and start attacks.

"His turnover play is very useful in the Championship and will allow Leeds to pressure their opponents in most of the games they play. His ability to get up and down the pitch will be great for Leeds in all areas of their gamed he could become an important player for Bielsa's system."