Real Madrid have entered the race to sign Kalvin Phillips from Leeds United, with Los Blancos manager Carlo Ancelotti being a huge fan of the England international, according to reports.
It emerged on Monday that Liverpool were 'preparing a bid' for the 26-year-old midfielder, who is said to be 'seduced' by the idea of playing Champions League football under the lights at Anfield.
Phillips, who has been a stand out player at Elland Road under Marcelo Bielsa in recent seasons, has been linked with a move for some time and once again, rumours have been rife this month.
In a recent report, Spanish publication El Nacional claim Jurgen Klopp's side are lining up a £33.4 million bid for 'The Yorkshire Pirlo' but a number of other clubs around Europe are interested, including Bayern Munich, PSG and Real Madrid.
In fact, Madrid are now favourites to sign the midfielder, according to El Nacional, who say Leeds are more willing to let Phillips move abroad to stop him from joining a Premier League rival.
The report adds that Phillips is one of Carlo Ancelotti's "great obsessions" after the Italian watched him play on numerous occasions while in charge at Everton.
Phillips has also been touted as a possible replacement for Casemiro in Madrid's stacked midfield, but would he consider a move away from Elland Road?
Back in December, he appeared to pour cold water over a potential move in the January transfer window by claiming he was happy and ready to sign a new contract with Leeds.
"I just want to focus on getting back fit," Phillips told Mail Sport. "But I speak to the owner [Andrea Radrizzani] regularly. I want a new contract. I’m very happy here."
Thoughts on rumours surrounding Madrid's interest in Kalvin Phillips? Should he stay at Leeds?
Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Transfers, Kalvin Phillips, Leeds United, Real Madrid, Liverpool, Premier League, La Liga
Jack Kenmare