David James says Villa should sign ‘talented’ Phillips

Aston Villa are expected to sign a defensive-midfielder this summer as Steven Gerrard doesn’t believe Marvelous Nakamba and Morgan Sanson are good enough to operate in front of the back four.

The Villa manager concedes Douglas Luiz isn’t a natural in the deep-lying role either, so a new face should be brought in ahead of the 2022/23 campaign – Yves Bissouma and Kalvin Phillips are on their radar.

David James believes the Midlands outfit should push to sign Phillips this summer as he’s a ‘talented’ player who could help bring success to Villa Park. Leeds United are desperate to keep the 26-year-old but may accept a bid of £60m.

James told GGrecon: “I do believe Aston Villa should compete for Kalvin Phillips’ signature if he becomes available this summer. He’s one of my favourite players and that’s not solely due to his footballing talent, but he’s a wonderful human being too. I can see (Gerrard) bringing success to Villa and that would be one exciting bus for Kalvin Phillips to be on.”

Phillips has made 226 appearances in all competitions, scoring 14 goals with 13 assists. The England international is one of the best defensive-midfielders in the Premier League, so it’s easy to see why Villa would want him. But Manchester United’s interest may hamper their chances of luring him from Elland Road.

Villa would have to break their transfer record to sign Phillips, but reports suggest they are that desperate to land their man, so time will tell.

In other news, Aston Villa have been tipped by Tony Cascarino to sign Kalvin Phillips this summer