Leeds United face ‘tough’ Kalvin Phillips decision amid return latest
Leeds United have achieved promotion back to the Premier League, and they will now need to recruit players capable of succeeding in the top flight.
Leeds have not been in the Premier League since 2023, and their squad looks vastly different to their last spell in the top division.
Daniel Farke’s future as manager is unclear, but the Whites are already planning for the transfer window, and have a decision to make over Kalvin Phillips.
The former Leeds hero is set to be available this summer, and a sensational return to Elland Road is on the cards.
Leeds could consider Phillips return
Phillips has struggled since he left Leeds in the summer of 2022 after making 234 appearances for the Whites, as his move to Manchester City ended in disaster.
He has since embarked on loan spells to West Ham and Ipswich Town, but struggled at both as he could not main consistent fitness.
Pundit David Prutton has now told Football League World (28 April) that Leeds should only consider Phillips if they believe he is still capable of getting back to his best.
“It would be the homecoming, wouldn’t it, of one of their former idols,” he stated.
“It’s a tough one, because a lot of people look at Phillips and say ‘why did he move on from Leeds United?’
“Obviously the playing time has been limited. I think the comparisons with Rodri are a bit unfair. Rodri is one of a kind, 99% of footballers on the planet wouldn’t live up to what Rodri has set as a standard.
| Stat | Phillips |
| Appearances | 234 |
| Goals | 14 |
| Assists | 13 |
“Obviously he’s had loan spells, which have been nowhere near fruitful enough.
“Whether Leeds would want him back remains to be seen, he’s certainly cut it at Premier League level with them. It’s whether they can afford him now, he’ll have a different level of earning potential and going rate.
“I think given how beloved he was at Leeds – they’re not fond of people who leave for ‘bigger and better teams’ – but with Phillips, if they can get back to that form he showed under [Marcelo] Bielsa, a lot has changed, of course, then that type of England international Phillips you would welcome with open arms.
“It’s just about whether that has changed and whether he can get back to those heights.”
Phillips Leeds return would depend on finances
Phillips could be a useful squad player, and if he can get back to his best, he can also provide a wealth of experience in an otherwise young squad at Leeds.
However, his fitness issues have plagued him, and given the wages he is on at Man City, a deal may not be easy to strike unless he agrees to a massive pay cut.
Ao Tanaka has been one of Leeds’ best players this season, and Phillips would find it difficult to oust him from the starting lineup unless he plays alongside him.
If the finances are viable, then Leeds could bring Phillips back at a potentially low cost, but the risk is too high to sign him on a big wage or for a substantial fee.