Leeds United reportedly want Liverpool defender Nat Phillips this summer in a move that could cost £10m – a player that Robbie Fowler said is a ‘cult hero’ at Anfield for his performances during Liverpool’s 2020-21 defensive crisis.
With Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip all injured, 26-year-old Phillips was brought in midway through the season. It saw him play in the Champions League quarter-finals against Real Madrid, and 17 Premier League games.
He has since signed a new deal at Anfield, until June 2025. Phil Hay has reported on The Athletic that Phillips has emerged as a target for Leeds, with Liverpool requesting a fee of £10m. Daniel Farke wanted him at Norwich City.
Speaking to the Sunday Mirror in May 2021 (23/02/21, p65), ex-Liverpool and Leeds striker Fowler was glowing in his praise of Phillips. He said that his form for the Reds during that season saw him become a Liverpool cult hero.
“Phillips is a cult hero for what he’s done, he wasn’t getting near the first-team. Rhys Williams has been fantastic, but he’s looked like a little boy at times. Fair play to both of them. I think they’ve shown they have big futures.”
Leeds want Nat Phillips, Robbie Fowler said he is a cult hero at Liverpool
Phillips would be a real signal of intent from Leeds. He is a Premier League defender and has shown that during his brief stints in the Reds first team. He needs to leave Anfield in order to finally kickstart his Premier League career.
Will Leeds be willing to shell out a fee of £10m? That remains to be seen. But Phillips is a player that will not only aid our promotion push, but also remaining in the top tier when – and if – we do get there in the next season or two.
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