Exclusive:'Dream come true' - Kevin Phillips reacts as Sunderland star linked with 'unbelievable' Real Madrid interest
Sunderland favourite Trai Hume has been speculatively linked with a move to Real Madrid in recent weeks.
Kevin Phillips has reacted to speculative transfer reports linking Sunderland full-back Trai Hume with a move to Real Madrid this summer, arguing that while it would represent a “dream come true” for any player, it is “unlikely” to happen.
Recent updates in Spain have claimed that Hume is one of several right-sided defensive options being monitored by the La Liga giants as they assess potential low-cost cover and competition for ex-Liverpool man Trent Alexander-Arnold ahead of the transfer window.
For his part, Hume has sought to play down the speculation, telling journalists while away on international duty with Northern Ireland last month: “Obviously, I seen it, but I didn't really think too much of it to be honest.”
And speaking exclusively to The Echo, courtesy of BestBettingSites, Phillips admitted that while it is a hugely flattering link for the player, he does not foresee Hume leaving Wearside any time soon.
He said: “I was never lucky enough in my career to be linked with a Real Madrid or a Barcelona. Just to be linked with them is something special. Whether that's going to happen, it's unlikely, but to be in that mould, that type of club...
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“And also, he's not playing for a top four team - it's not a Liverpool, it's not a Man City, it's not an Arsenal. So to be linked with a club like that from Sunderland makes it even more special. Listen, he's a good player. He's had a fantastic season. And if it was to happen, it would be an unbelievable dream come true. But I'm looking forward to watching him perform next for Sunderland and obviously on the European stage as well.”