Blackburn Rovers teenager Ashley Phillips is said to be a target for Spurs this summer – but Jon D. Thomason has been looking to end speculation about his future, by saying he may be on the verge of signing a new contract.
England’s Under-17 international Phillips has yet to make an appearance with Blackburn’s first team, but that is likely to change this summer. He has been a regular fixture in the Under-21 squad already, scoring two goals in 11 matches.
Phillips’ contract will expire at the end of the season. Reports claim that Tottenham, Chelsea and Manchester United have shown interest in the 17-year-old defender, for a fee of £3m that is said to be enough to lure Blackburn.
But Thomason, Blackburn’s president, has commented on Phillips’ future. He says talks between the club and Philips’ entourage have been “very good”. A new deal for Philips at Blackburn could be imminent.
“The club is having a good conversation with the players, the family and the agent. It’s an ongoing process, and they have very good communication. He’s a little boy of 17 and he’s huge.
“Clubs in England, when you play for England youth matches it becomes very interesting. Phillips told Lancashire Live, when asked about Phillips’ future, there are ongoing talks with the family and the club.
Thomason: Spurs target Phillips could sign new contract
What encourages Tottenham fans – and fans of Chelsea and Manchester United – is that while the three clubs continue to add to their first team, they are still looking to improve their under-21 squad.
They are ready to spend money on potential stars, even at the age of 17 years. But they may have to continue watching from a distance, if Blackburn can get a deal across the line in the coming weeks.
In other news, ‘Sorry to say this’: Souness made Spurs claim Arsenal fans won’t like her