'A huge statement' - Journalist makes big transfer claim regarding 'outstanding' Leeds star

Newcastle United could potentially make a ‘statement’ summer move for Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The 26-year-old has matured into one of the best midfielders in the Premier League, also becoming an undisputed key player for England alongside Declan Rice.

Phillips is currently a huge loss for Leeds through injury and there is also uncertainty surrounding his future, with a new deal not signed yet.

The midfielder is reportedly happy to extend his stay but that doesn’t mean it is a certainty, with a host of clubs sure to be lurking ahead of the summer transfer window. Indeed, 90min reported that Newcastle are among several Premier League outfits keeping an eye on his situation in Yorkshire.

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke has talked up the idea of Phillips joining the big-money revolution at St James’ Park.

He told the media outlet: “Signing somebody like a Kalvin Phillips, an England international, a top Premier League player, would be a huge statement from Newcastle.”

While some players may be influenced by money and would jump at the chance to join Newcastle, Phillips is deeply loyal and has loved Leeds since his childhood.

That doesn’t mean he will stay at Elland Road forever, but you could only envisage him pushing for a move if a club in pursuit of trophies, such as Manchester City or Liverpool, were to make some overtures, rather than a relegation-threatened outfit like the Magpies.

Phillips does appear genuinely happy for the time being, although relegation probably would spell the end of his time at Leeds. The England international is far too good to be playing in the Championship, having been hailed as ‘outstanding’ by Alex McLeish in 2020.

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