Arsenal are one of a number of Premier League clubs interested in raiding Leeds United to sign England midfielder Kalvin Phillips. Back in 2021, it was Phillips that left Gunners legend Vieira “surprised” at just how good he was.
Phillips, 25, has been a regular for Leeds United since making his debut in 2015 under Neil Redfearn. With 226 league and cup games at Leeds, it might be time for the England midfielder to move on as the summer approaches.
Numerous clubs are interested. 90Min report that talks over a new contract for Phillips have not yet been staged – with Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Newcastle and Manchester United are keeping tabs on the situation.
The Mirror report that Phillips is rated at £60million and if an offer in that region is tabled, then Leeds might have to consider his sale. Vieira spoke after England’s win over Croatia at Euro 2020, as a pundit on ITV.
He shared how he had been surprised by Phillips, during the 1-0 win: “I was quite really impressed, especially with Phillips. He’s a ball-winner, he’s a really strong character and, to be honest, he really surprised me.”
Vieira on Phillips: £60m for Leeds star is an Arsenal bargain
There are two more pieces of the Arsenal jigsaw Mikel Arteta needs to add this summer. Aaron Ramsdale is the ideal goalkeeper, and the back four is settled in Takehiro Tomiyasu, Ben White, Gabriel and Kieran Tierney.
A striker is a must this summer, but the attacking midfield behind the striker is excellent. Gabriel Martinelli, Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka – with Emile Smith-Rowe waiting in the wings.
Thomas Partey is a brilliant box-to-box option but the Gunners need a replacement for Granit Xhaka. Phillips would be perfect. At £60million but only 25, he would be the ideal summer signing for the Gunners.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
