According to varying reports, Jürgen Klopp has already told Leeds United supporters all they need to know about the 26 year-old centre-back Nat Phillips, who was linked with a move to Elland Road last summer.
Reports claim Leeds would have to foot a bill of £10 million to be in for a chance to recruit the Englishman. Although the 6ft 3 giant has only appeared 29 times since making his debut back in 2020, his lack of game time is not a sign of a lack of quality by any means.
Klopp told Match of The Day after a 2-1 win over West Ham back in 2020 on his debut:
“He’s a brilliant guy, smart guy, intelligent, everything. He’s not easy on the eye, he’s not Messi but who cares?”
“In the air, he’s a monster! He was incredible. For the first game, I think everyone can imagine how nervy that must be after a long wait. It’s a crazy story, three years ago he was on his way to America to college.
“Twelve Championship teams wanted him and to me it was clear he was going, and I was fine with that – and it didn’t work out for whatever reason, and it’s great! Tonight he was spot on, helped the team incredibly.
With Leeds United’s awful display of defence during the 22/23 campaign conceding 78 goals with only 5 clean sheets, you would think players like Nat Phillips Leeds should be craving for and paying over the odds just to secure his signature. Particularly when most players are leaving either on loan or due to relegation clauses or other offers elsewhere. The time for the 49s to really flex their financial commitment and prowess is certainly going to be needed in this Summer Transfer window to get Leeds back where they belong. One to watch indeed.
