Manchester United have a number of tasks on their list heading into the January transfer window, with a defensive midfielder one of their main priorities.
Amadou Haidara and Boubacar Kamara are two of the players from the continent to have been linked, as well as RB Leipzig and United States man Tyler Adams, while Leeds United 's Kalvin Phillips has been floated as an option closer to home.
Leeds have suffered without their key man, who has missed a number of games this season through injury, and their difficulties only go to show how important he can be to any team.
However, Phillips' own comments have cast some doubt on the prospect of a move to Ralf Rangnick's side any time soon.
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Talk of a bust-up between Phillips and Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa has been described as "nonsense" by the midfielder, who played a key part for England at Euro 2020.
"I was subbed off at half-time at Brighton. I wasn’t happy but I knew why he had done it. If I didn’t then he was always going to tell me," he told The Mail.
In Phillips' absence, Leeds have struggled to contain opponents, conceding 11 goals in a week against Manchester City and Arsenal, but the 26-year-old has no plans to leave.
"I speak to the owner regularly. I want a new contract. I’m very happy here," he said.
"I just think it’s mental, but I’m not gonna say that I’m not worth £60m!" he said of the reported transfer valuation attached to him after a breakthrough Premier League season.
Phillips has made 18 appearances for club and country this season, but Leeds have found things difficult as they aim to match last season's top-half finish.
Leeds sit 16th in the Premier League after 18 games, with an injury crisis hitting them hard in attack and defence.
Phillips has remained in the England picture when fit, though, and last played for Gareth Southgate's side in the 10-0 victory over San Marino in November.
He had previously started every game at Euro 2020, as England made it all the way to the final.
If Phillips is not an option for United, the Red Devils could end up ramping up their approach for Marseille midfielder and France under-21 international Kamara.
The 22-year-old is out of contract in the summer, and will be free to speak to potential suitors in the new year.
Marseille have previously suggested they haven't given up hope of keeping him around, but a bid in January might be enough to convince Jorge Sampaoli's team to cash in and prepare for a future without him.
