As Premier League giants Manchester United eye a sensational move for Kalvin Phillips, the midfielder aims at prolonging his stay at Leeds United.
Leeds United are in a bit of disarray with all the injuries to their key stars. Marcelo Bielsa has endured a testing time in his second season in the Premier League as he prepares himself for an intense relegation battle. The Whites are on the cusp of the danger zone and with recent results not going they could be dragged into the fight for survival.
While they are missing crucial players through injury, midfielder Kalvin Phillips has been the most important absentee. Leeds United were somewhat managing through with the England international in the squad; they have been disastrous in defence and bad overall in games without him.
Moreover, there’s the intense transfer speculation circling the club as Phillips is an important target for Premier League’s heavyweight clubs, including Liverpool and Manchester United.
Both the Premier League giants are looking to sign the England international next summer. Phillips has proven his quality after Leeds’ first full season in the Premier League last term. Those displays got him a place in Gareth Southgate’s England setup, with the midfielder playing all of their fixtures at the Euros.
Reports have claimed that Manchester United will be willing to make a huge offer if Phillips and Leeds make their intentions clear over the midfielder’s future. With a contract until 2024, the Whites are certainly hoping to offer a new deal and ensure his long-term future remains at Elland road.
Some recent reports pointed towards a possible bust-up between the midfielder and Bielsa. As per media reports, their relationship was strained after Leeds’ clash against Brighton, although Phillips provided clarification on the matter in a recent interview, with his commments appearing in the Mirror.
Phillips said, “I was subbed off at half-time at Brighton. I wasn’t happy but I knew why he had done it. If I didn’t then he was always going to tell me.”
In addition to clearing up that issue, Phillips also hinted at extending his stay with Leeds United as he appeared to demand a new contract from the club. “I speak to the owner regularly. I want a new contract. I’m very happy here,” he said. “I just think it’s mental, but I’m not gonna say that I’m not worth £60m!”
It remains to be seen if Leeds can offer him attractive terms and ensure his long-term future at the club. However, in the scenario both parties fail to agree on new terms, Manchester United Liverpool will be ready to pounce on even half an opportunity.