AliousKalvin Phillips will always hold a special place in the hearts of Leeds United fans. A product of the club’s academy, Phillips rose to prominence as a midfield general, making 234 appearances and scoring 14 goals for his boyhood side after debuting in the 2014/15 Championship season. However, ahead of the 2022/23 campaign, Phillips was sold to Manchester City in a £45m deal, marking the end of an era for Leeds.
Since leaving Elland Road, Phillips’ career has been somewhat underwhelming. He has managed just 31 appearances for City, endured a disappointing loan spell at West Ham, and is currently on loan at newly promoted Ipswich Town. Two and a half years on from his departure, Leeds boss Daniel Farke now has the opportunity to bring in a player who could replicate the impact of the England international as the January transfer window draws to a close.
### Leeds Linked with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
According to *The Sun*, Leeds United are considering an ambitious move for Besiktas midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in an effort to bolster their promotion push. The former Liverpool star joined Besiktas in the summer of 2023 but has struggled for game time, making just six appearances this season, only two of which were starts.
Leeds aren’t the only club interested in the 31-year-old. Championship rivals Leicester City, as well as Premier League sides Wolves and Sheffield United, are reportedly in the race for his signature.
Despite the competition, Leeds believe Oxlade-Chamberlain could bring much-needed experience and quality to their midfield as they aim to secure a return to the Premier League.
Could Oxlade-Chamberlain Be Leeds’ New Kalvin Phillips?
Replacing Phillips’ influence at Elland Road is no small task. Since his departure, Leeds have done well to strengthen their midfield, with Ao Tanaka and Ethan Ampadu playing key roles in the team’s current success.
The duo has helped propel Leeds to the top of the Championship table with just 17 games left to play.
Even with a strong midfield in place, Oxlade-Chamberlain could be the player to elevate the team further.
Like Phillips, he began his career in a more advanced role before transitioning into deeper positions, utilizing his passing range and defensive capabilities to great effect.
This season in the Süper Lig, Oxlade-Chamberlain has shown flashes of brilliance despite limited minutes. He has completed 83% of his long passes, a trait reminiscent of Phillips’ ability to dictate play from deep.
Additionally, his defensive stats are impressive, winning 4.8 duels per 90 minutes, including 1.6 aerial duels. These attributes make him a versatile option capable of thriving as either a box-to-box or deep-lying midfielder.
A Calculated Gamble for Promotion
While injuries have been a recurring issue for Oxlade-Chamberlain, a potential loan deal minimizes the risk for Leeds. If fit, the experienced midfielder could bring the extra edge needed to end the club’s two-year stint in the Championship.
With competition fierce for his services, Leeds will need to act quickly. However, if they succeed in bringing Oxlade-Chamberlain to Elland Road, it could be the final piece in their quest to return to the Premier League.
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