Arsenal reportedly want a Premier League star that Ben White said he had learned from, back in January

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Arsenal are one of five Premier League clubs reportedly keen on Leeds ace Kalvin Phillips – a player Ben White said he had learned from in January.

Phillips, 25, continues to catch the eye after a brilliant 2020-21 campaign. He starred for Leeds, helping the Whites finish in a lofty ninth position.

His summer was even better, helping England reach the final of Euro 2020 – only for the Three Lions to lose to Italy in the final on penalties.

The form of Phillips has not gone unnoticed. TeamTalk say Leeds are trying to extend his contract in order to fend off interest from other top-tier sides.

Manchester City, Tottenham, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal are all said to be taking a look at Phillips. White spoke recently of learning from Phillips.

“In training, I always did my drills playing centre-mid from the very start at Leeds”, White told The Athletic in 2021. “We always did our drills together.

“I’d see what he was doing. Learn off him every day and then in games, playing behind him. So, by the time I was needed, I knew what I was doing.”

White on Phillips: Arsenal star could tempt Leeds midfielder

If it was not widely known before the duo’s inclusion in England’s Euro 2020 side, White and Phillips are close. White spent time at Leeds on loan.

Leeds failed to keep White and he returned to Brighton, but the duo reunited on England duty. A further reunion could be had, at Arsenal.

While the other four Premier League clubs have more pull, the presence of White might tempt Phillips. But it will be tricky to lure him away.

A Leeds academy product, Phillips has been sensational for the Yorkshire club and the Whites are on a similar playing field to Arsenal right now.

But should Leeds slip this season, a move to Arsenal could be tempting next summer – especially given the presence of White at The Emirates.