Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips in action. (Getty Images)
According to Bleacher Report, Liverpool are interested in Leeds United star midfielder Kalvin Phillips.
The 24-year-old Phillips has been earning rave reviews in England following his standout displays for Leeds in the Championship. One of the most highly-rated midfielders, Phillips has improved drastically under current boss Marcelo Bielsa, that has seen him turn into one of the key players for the side.
A first-team regular, Phillips has made 31 league appearances this term and has 175 caps for Leeds under his belt.
Phillips has been instrumental in Leeds’ excellent displays this season that has seen the side climb to the top of the table. They now look well set for promotion back to the Premier League after having lost the opportunity last season.
A defensive midfielder by trade, Phillips’ excellent defensive skills have seen him be deployed as a centre-back at times by Bielsa. Acting as a shield in front of the defence, Phillips’ presence has seen the side concede just 30 goals in the league – the lowest in the Championship this season.
His eye-catching figures of 14 clean sheets in the league this time further gives an idea of his defensive capabilities.
The report suggests that Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is on the lookout for a midfielder and Phillips is valued highly by the German. The Reds are well stocked in the middle, with the side having as many as 8 midfielders already. They also have an established defensive midfielder in Fabinho, who helped them to Champions League glory last year.
Meanwhile, what makes Phillips special is his versatility. He can be a useful player for Liverpool – something which he does at Leeds under Bielsa.
Out of his 34 appearances for the Whites this time, Phillips has been deployed 32 times as a deep-lying playmaker and twice in a three-man defence, speaking volumes about the player’s flexibility. Phillips seems to tick all the boxes and could be a great addition at Anfield.
A proven customer, there is no denying that Phillips lacks talent. The youngster can give Fabinho a run for his money and vie for a starting spot. Moreover, he can offer Klopp plenty of options with his versatility. Hence, Liverpool must sign Phillips as he can only help them grow even stronger.
