Kevin Phillips plays down Real Madrid talk around Sunderland full-back Trai Hume | OneFootball

Kevin Phillips has cooled speculation over a Real Madrid move for Sunderland full-back Trai Hume, describing the talk as flattering but unlikely.

According to Sunderland Echo, he said such a switch would be a dream for any player, yet he does not expect Hume to leave Wearside this summer.

Reports in Spain have suggested Hume is among several right-sided defenders Madrid are assessing as low-cost cover and competition for ex-Liverpool man Trent Alexander-Arnold ahead of the transfer window.

Hume, while on Northern Ireland duty last month, downplayed the noise, saying he had seen the stories but had not given them much thought.

Phillips added that being linked with Madrid from outside the top four underlines Hume’s progress, praising his excellent season. He said he is looking forward to watching the defender for Sunderland and in Europe.

Source: Sunderland Echo