Man Utd are poised to try their luck with a £50m bid for Leeds Utd ace Kalvin Phillips, though a report has revealed a different Premier League midfielder could be targeted if plan A fails.
All eyes will be on Old Trafford this summer when Erik ten Hag embarks on his first window as Manchester United manager. The Dutchman has a mountain to climb to put United back among the big boys. Indeed, Ralf Rangnick recently suggested as many as 10 new players could – or should – be signed.
However, if United are to bring in the quality of player they require, a more modest figure of four or five signings appears more likely.
Now, the Athletic report one player who would remedy their midfield woes is being targeted in the form of Leeds’ Kalvin Phillips.
The outlet state the Red Devils are ‘exploring the prospect’ of moving for Phillips. Capturing the 26-year-old has reportedly been given the green light by Rangnick who will take a position upstairs at season’s end.
Phillips has reportedly been scouted by United for close to three years now. The Leeds ace has gone from strength to strength in that time and was an integral part of England’s march to the final at Euro 2020 last summer.
Phillips would be a fine addition to any side and United’s need for a revamp in midfield is clear for all to see.
Paul Pogba will leave as a free agent and Nemanja Matic has told the club of his desire to move on. Fred and Scott McTominay will remain, but doubts as to whether they’re of the calibre United need to challenge Man City and Liverpool remain.
Would Kalvin Phillips cross the divide?
A £50m bid for Phillips is therefore in the works – something the Manchester Evening News have regularly claimed would be forthcoming this summer.
It’s important to acknowledge that no contact between the two clubs or between Manchester United and Phillips’ camp has been made at present. Any move is clearly in its infancy at this stage.
Regardless, Phillips is a boyhood Leeds fan and prising him away from Elland Road will be difficult. Indeed, the Sun previously noted three factors that would likely prompt Phillips to snub a move.
That could leave United scrambling for an alternative, and the Athletic add Ruben Neves could be that man.
The Wolves maestro would cost a similar fee to Phillips and incoming boss Ten Hag is deemed a fan of the Portuguese.
A move for the 24-year-old would likely face competition from Arsenal.
