Newcastle United are interested in signing Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips in the summer transfer window, according to a fresh transfer rumour.
The Lowdown: Phillips indispensable at Leeds
The 26-year-old has arguably been the most important player at Elland Road over the past five years, maturing into a truly formidable footballer.
Not only has Phillips shone for Leeds, making 226 appearances for the club, he has also become a key figure for England, scooping his country's Player of the Year award in 2021.
However, it could be that the midfielder looks for a fresh challenge this summer, despite his love for his boyhood club.
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The Latest: Newcastle eye up move for Phillips
According to The Daily Mail, Newcastle have emerged as potential suitors for Phillips' signature, with their big-money takeover allowing them vast sums of money to spend on new signings.
Aston Villa are also mentioned in the report, with the Leeds hero 'prepared to assess his options' once this season reaches its conclusion.
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The Verdict: Survival paramount for Whites
It could be that Phillips decides to leave Leeds whatever happens this season, but there is no denying that relegation back to the Championship would almost certainly lead to his departure.
An England regular simply isn't going to be content with playing in the second tier, regardless of his love for the Whites, so that makes it all the more crucial for Jesse Marsch's team to retain their top-flight status over the coming weeks.
The hope is that Phillips stay at Elland Road for the rest of his career - Tony Adams has hailed him as 'fantastic' - but it would be hard to begrudge the 26-year-old a move elsewhere considering the service he has given to Leeds, especially if a Champions League club were to come in for him.
In other news, Andrea Radrizzani has made a key claim regarding his future as Leeds owner. Read more here.