Why Burnley should revive their interest in Kalvin Phillips
Back in February, The Sun claimed that Burnley were one of the few Premier League interested in signing Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips. However, there have been no such talks since then.
Phillips, 24, came through Wortley Juniors and Leeds’ youth ranks. He was promoted to the first-team back in 2015 and since then, he has been a regular. He has made 181 appearances for the club and in the process, scored 12 goals and provided 10 assists.
The Englishman has been impressive this season in Leeds’ promotion chase and has helped his club to the top of the Championship table. The report also suggested that Wolves, Sheffield United and Brighton were also in the battle to secure the services of the midfielder.
Phillips – A reliable midfielder for Burnley
After a fairly solid campaign, Burnley should look to take the next step in the coming seasons. For that to happen, manager Sean Dyche needs to strengthen his squad over the summer.
One key area which the manager should focus on strengthening is the midfield. Jack Cork and Ashley Westwood are the two defensive midfielders available at his disposal at the moment. The duo has been a regular throughout the campaign but both of them are ageing and cannot offer much in the years to come.
Moreover, by the end of next season, both of them would be out of contracts. And their potential departure would leave the Clarets with limited options in the middle of the park. Thus, reigniting their interest in Leeds ace Phillips would be sensible by the club.
The 24-year-old has improved himself and is considered to be one of the best midfielders in the Championship. He has featured regularly under Marcelo Bielsa and is the team’s engine in the middle of the park. In 37 league games this season, he has also contributed with 2 goals and 2 assists.
A defensive midfielder by trade, he is capable of playing in an advanced role too. Phillips also has the ability to play on both sides of the central defence and his versatility would be a huge boost for a Burnley side which has already conceded 48 goals in the top-flight so far.
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Verdict
With Cork and Westwood having just one year left in their contract, Burnley need to inject their midfield with young blood. And Phillips would provide them with some much-needed depth and quality. He has already shown immense potential and would be a solid addition to the side. Thus, they should attempt a move for the 24-year-old this summer.
