Newcastle would make 'huge statement' by signing England ace

Newcastle can prove that they are a force to be reckoned with if they sign Kalvin Phillips this summer, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Leeds midfielder has established himself as a key member of Marcelo Bielsa’s squad at Elland Road in recent years, which has led to a number of clubs keeping tabs on him ahead of the next transfer window.

The 26-year-old still has over two years remaining on his contract at Leeds. Still, some may expect the Yorkshire outfit to be trying to tie him down to a long-term deal to fend off interest from their rivals.

This has not been the case, though, as it has been revealed that Leeds have not held contract negotiations with Phillips this year.

Other Premier League sides appear to be sensing an opportunity, with 90min claiming that Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and Newcastle are all monitoring how his situation progresses.

Newcastle managed to bring in five players in January in their first transfer window under their new owners, headed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).

These signings have helped the Magpies to move out of the relegation zone, and O’Rourke thinks Newcastle can make another splash this summer by landing Phillips.

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

The North-East club were linked with a number of players in January, but they ended up taking their time, and it appears that they have done some smart business.

Kieran Trippier arrived from Atletico Madrid, and has made an immediate impact by scoring in wins over Everton and Aston Villa. He has now picked up a foot injury, but it already looks like money well spent.