Former Flamengo academy coach Carlos Noval has revealed that Manchester United sent a scout to watch now-Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior when he was just 14 back in 2015.
08.04.2022 - 08:11 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Earlier this week, the Manchester Evening News revealed that Manchester United were working on a deal to sign Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips. It’s no secret that bringing in at least one new defensive midfielder has been a priority for the club some time.
United have previously looked to rectify the problem by showing an interest in the likes of Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham, although at present it seems as though neither will be realistically attainable this summer. West Ham would look for a fee far north of £120million, while Erling Haaland's expected summer move would likely see Borussia Dortmund dig their heels in over his English team-mate.
Phillips, though, is believed to be attainable. He is contracted to Leeds until 2024, yet discussions over a renewal have become protracted, which means the Yorkshire club might need to cash in this summer or risk losing him for a reduced fee next year when he will have only 12 months left on his current deal.
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In terms of a profile, Phillips ticks many boxes for United. His role for Leeds, sitting ahead of the defence, means that he’s not a headliner-grabber in terms of goals or assists, however, he’s quick and extremely mobile, which makes him a master at pressuring and breaking up opposition attacks in the middle of the pitch.
He may only stand at 5ft10in, yet he’s aggressive and tenacious. That’s a point captured by the fact that only three players across the Premier League who have played over 1000 minutes can better his average (13.2 per 90) in terms of defensive pressures made in the middle third of the pitch - although his success rate in those pressures betters all
Former Flamengo academy coach Carlos Noval has revealed that Manchester United sent a scout to watch now-Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior when he was just 14 back in 2015.
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