Newcastle can prove that they are a force to be reckoned with if they sign Kalvin Phillips this summer, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The Leeds midfielder has established himself as a key member of Marcelo Bielsa's squad at Elland Road in recent years, which has led to a number of clubs keeping tabs on him ahead of the next transfer window.

What's the latest transfer news involving Phillips?

The 26-year-old still has over two years remaining on his contract at Leeds. Still, some may expect the Yorkshire outfit to be trying to tie him down to a long-term deal to fend off interest from their rivals.

This has not been the case, though, as it has been revealed that Leeds have not held contract negotiations with Phillips this year.

Other Premier League sides appear to be sensing an opportunity, with 90min claiming that Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and Newcastle are all monitoring how his situation progresses.

What has O'Rourke said about Phillips?

Newcastle managed to bring in five players in January in their first transfer window under their new owners, headed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF).

These signings have helped the Magpies to move out of the relegation zone, and O'Rourke thinks Newcastle can make another splash this summer by landing Phillips.

He told GIVEMESPORT: “Signing somebody like a Kalvin Phillips, an England international, a top Premier League player, would be a huge statement from Newcastle.”

Would Phillips be Newcastle's best signing since last year's takeover?

The North-East club were linked with a number of players in January, but they ended up taking their time, and it appears that they have done some smart business.

Kieran Trippier arrived from Atletico Madrid, and has made an immediate impact by scoring in wins over Everton and Aston Villa. He has now picked up a foot injury, but it already looks like money well spent.

Dan Burn was also brought in to bolster the side's backline, and he made an excellent start as Eddie Howe's men kept a clean sheet against Villa on his debut.

Arguably the most exciting signing was Bruno Guimaraes, who could flourish once he settles into English football.

However, Phillips could be the best signing of the bunch if Newcastle can get a deal across the line.

The 19-cap international has been a standout performer at Leeds over the last 18 months in the Premier League, and cemented his place in England's side at last summer's European Championships.

Now approaching his peak, it seems likely that he will only get better, and the possibility of him playing alongside Guimaraes at the heart of Newcastle's midfield is a mouthwatering prospect for the Toon Army.