Arsenal have reportedly thrown their hat into the ring to sign Leeds and England star Kalvin Phillips. It comes just days after Lee Dixon suggested the midfielder would be a “good fit” for Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal system.
Phillips, 26, has managed just 15 appearances for Leeds throughout the 2021-22 season due to a long-term hamstring injury which he picked up in a 2-2 draw with Brentford back in December. He is closing in on a return.
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The Euro 2020 finalist was on the bench against Wolves, as Leeds produced a 3-2 comeback win last time out. 90Min report that Arsenal have joined the hunt for Phillips, who may opt to leave his boyhood club this summer.
The Times claim Aston Villa are the front runners to sign Phillips, as they are willing to pay his £60million asking price. Only last week, Arsenal legend Dixon said ball-playing midfielder Phillips would be a “good fit”.
“I like Kalvin Phillips, I am a big fan,” Dixon told David Seaman’s podcast when discussing Phillips and a potential move to Arsenal. “I think he would be a good fit. I just like the way he is an all-round [player].”
Dixon on Phillips: Leeds star would surely jump at Arsenal move
Arsenal desperately need a midfielder. Granit Xhaka remains first choice and while he is capable of producing consistent performances, he always runs the risk of a red card. Phillips is head and shoulders above Xhaka.
More importantly, he fits the Arsenal blueprint of experienced players with plenty of years left in the tank – Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Martin Odegaard, Gabriel, Aaron Ramsdale etc. White would tempt Phillips.
Indeed, the two have holidayed together and are good friends – having spent 2019-20 together at Elland Road. Phillips would surely be tempted, the Gunners have the money. Leeds would accept if £60million is tabled.
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