Kalvin Phillips has been impressive in Leeds United's promotion chase this season (Getty Images)
According to a report from The Pink Un, Bournemouth are one of the few clubs interested in signing Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips.
Kalvin Phillips, 23, has established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Championship this season. He was outstanding during Leeds United’s failed promotion bid and his displays have also attracted interest from Norwich City and Southampton, the report adds.
Leeds could find it difficult to keep hold of one of their prized assets this summer following the play-off heartache. The 23-year-old has a contract at Elland Road until the summer of 2021, but the £15m price-tag on his head makes Kalvin Phillips attainable for Premier League clubs.
Keeping that in mind, Bournemouth should act swiftly and beat their Premier League rivals to acquire Phillips’ signature.
Bournemouth have already completed their first signing of the summer transfer window, with highly-rated Lloyd Kelly joining the Cherries from Bristol City. The youngster has signed a long-term contract with the Sea Coast club and is expected to compete with the likes of Adam Smith, Charlie Daniels and Diego Rico at left-back.
The early signing of Kelly clearly suggests that Eddie Howe means business after an underwhelming 14-placed finish in the Premier League. But Howe’s side need much more than the 20-year-old defender if they are to aim for a top-half finish next campaign.
One area the Cherries need additions is the midfield. Lewis Cook is currently sidelined with a long-term injury, while Andrew Surman will turn 33 in August. Jefferson Lerma enjoyed a solid debut season at the Vitality Stadium but what he lacks a combative partner besides him.
Well, that player could just be Kalvin Phillips next season. The 23-year-old, a product of the Leeds academy, had the best season of his career in midfield under Marcelo Bielsa. He was a permanent fixture in the Whites’ XI throughout the season and was rightly included in the Championship Team of the Season.
Phillips thrived in his role just ahead of the back four, as he used his distribution skills and tackling traits to dictate games in the Championship. A fantastic tackler, the 23-year-old is also a fluent passer of the ball with both his feet which proves how he can perform both aspects of the anchorman’s role in midfield.
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Plus, he has also lined up as a centre-back under Bielsa, which means Howe will get a versatile player if Bournemouth manages to sign him.
Phillips would be a smart recruit, capable of playing both in midfield and defence, perfect for the Eddie Howe’s style of play. Therefore, the Cherries must not hesitate to splash the cash to sign the midfielder from Leeds.