Leeds United have been linked to a move for Fiorentina's Erick Pulgar as they approach their chance to bolster their first team options.

The summer saw the Whites recruit six new first team players on a permanent basis, including first choice goalkeeper Illan Meslier and wide man Raphinha. But their recent run of form in the Premier League has raised a couple of red flags and Andrea Radrizzani must be prepared to once again splash the cash.

According to Viola News, Pulgar is in a position where he will be allowed to leave Fiorentina under the "right conditions". Elland Road is reportedly a solid contender for his next potential destination.

Pulgar vs Phillips

Kalvin Phillips is currently Leeds' first choice defensive midfielder, with Ouasim Bouy behind him in the pecking order. However, the latter is yet to even make a senior appearance for the Yorkshire outfit and is now into the final six months of his contract.

With an exit more than likely on the cards this summer, Leeds would benefit from adding another No.6 to their arsenal. Not only would a back up for Phillips be hugely beneficial, but Pulgar could also compete with the 25-year-old for prime spot in Marcelo Bielsa's lineup.

According to WhoScored, the two were almost like-for-like with their defensive contributions last season. Phillips made 1.4 interceptions per match compared to Pulgar's 1.3 and both averaged 1.3 clearances.

erick-pulgar-kalvin-phillips-stats
erick-pulgar-kalvin-phillips-stats

The Fiorentina man's two tackle average per game isn't far off Phillips' 2.6 either. But one major difference between these two similar players is Pulgar's ability to pose a major threat in front of goal.

Leeds are leaking goals and need tightening up at the back, but they are also in need of some extra creativity in the final third. Pulgar contributed an impressive seven goals and six assists last term for the Serie A side, compared to two goals and two assists for Phillips.

Not only would the £11million-valued midfielder be a rock in the engine room for the Whites, but he could be a great asset to Patrick Bamford's threat in front of goal. His offering of getting forward as well as mercilessly defending is something that Phillips doesn't quite offer Leeds right now.

In other news, Helder Costa must be sold to make way for Adama Traore...