Had Leeds United sealed promotion in the Championship play-off final, you would imagine that one of the first pieces of business the Whites would do would be to sign Joe Rodon permanently.
Joe Rodon proved to be an inspired centre-back signing for Daniel Farke’s side; arguably the best in that position since Leeds landed Ben White back in 2019.
Unfortunately for the Whites, the Wembley hurdle proved to be just a little too big for Leeds, and there are now doubts over whether the club will be able to hold onto the Welshman.
Leeds still plan to try and sign Rodon permanently from Tottenham, but you would not be surprised to see him attract Premier League interest after his superb loan.
Leeds should look to replicate Joe Rodon move this summer
Whether Rodon stays or not, Leeds arguably need to strengthen at centre-back this summer, particularly with Liam Cooper out of contract as things stand. Ethan Ampadu spent the second-half of the campaign in the role after Pascal Struijk sustained what proved to be a serious injury.
And perhaps they should use their switch for Rodon as inspiration for the player they target, with the 26-year-old not the only Tottenham centre-back on loan in the Championship this past season.
Ashley Phillips joined Plymouth Argyle in January and went on to play in 18 of their 20 league games as the Pilgrims kept themselves in the second-tier.
Spurs will be looking for Phillips to take that further step next year, with the teenager previously labelled a ‘phenomenal‘ talent. And thus, a switch to Leeds could make a lot of sense for all parties.
Ashley Phillips ready to take next step next season
Tottenham have seen with Rodon what a good spell at Elland Road can do for a player, and joining Leeds would present Phillips with the chance to test himself on the biggest stage without making the jump to the top-flight just yet.
Phillips is not yet the finished article, but, like Rodon, he is someone who is capable of some brilliant defending while also being confident and assured in possession.
Leeds will hope that Rodon remains a stalwart of their side next year as his signing would be a real statement as they look to go up at the second time of asking.
But Phillips is definitely going to have a lot of admirers in the second tier this summer too, and Leeds should make sure that they are in the mix.