Is reported £3.9m Leeds interest a boost for Aston Villa?

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Leeds United are reportedly interested in luring Massimo Luongo from Queens Park Rangers to Elland Road this summer – but could that interest be a boost for newly-promoted Aston Villa?

The World Game claim 26-year-old Luongo is a target for both the Whites and Nottingham Forest this summer, and is said to be available for just £3.9million with his contract set to expire in 12 months time.

QPR sporting director Les Ferdinand told the World Game that he believes Luongo needs to move on in order to further his career, after the London-based side finished in 19th place in the Championship last term.

With Leeds leading the way in pursuit of the 42-time Australia international, does the reported interest from the Yorkshire club give Dean Smith’s Aston Villa a boost in their pursuit of Kalvin Phillips?

The Sun claim Aston Villa are desperate to land Phillips, but will only pay less than half than Leeds’ asking price – which is said to be as much as £30million for the uncapped Englishman.

Villa are miles off the valuation, but Leeds’ desire to bring in Luongo could suggest that the Whites are looking for a replacement in the middle of the park – in case Phillips leaves.

Luongo and Phillips mirror many attributes, with both best suited at the base of a midfield. Luongo’s passing, strength in the tackle and footballing intelligence makes him excellent cover for Phillips.

But Aston Villa may see Leeds’ interest in Luongo as a sign that perhaps they are preparing to offload Phillips.