Leeds United move for Kalvin Phillips very much on after as Elland Road sources speak out
Kalvin Phillips could be primed for a sensational return to Leeds United after what club sources have said ahead of the January transfer window.
Phillips was part of the title-winning Leeds squad that won promotion from the Championship in 2019-20, but he has never kicked on since his £42million move to Man City in 2022.
Phillips failed to impress Pep Guardiola, and he then endured unsuccessful loan spells with both West Ham and Ipswich Town in recent seasons.
The midfielder is desperate to play football regularly, and it’s no shock that Leeds are linked with Phillips in what would be a spectacular reunion with the Peacocks.
Leeds linked with sensational return for Kalvin Phillips
Phillips has played just seven minutes of football this season after appearing as a substitute in Man City’s 2-0 win over Huddersfield in the third round of the EFL Cup.
LeedsLive reported on Thursday that club sources within Leeds are particularly interested in bringing in players who are unsettled at their current clubs and are in search of more minutes on the pitch.
This brings the likes of Phillips and Raheem Sterling in contention, with the Chelsea winger training by himself and being left out of matchday squads at the moment.
In Phillips’ case, it’s clear that bringing back a player who has come through the academy would be hugely beneficial for Daniel Farke’s side, and he could help the Peacocks achieve their short-term goals for the campaign.
Leeds are embroiled in a Premier League relegation battle, and his quality on the ball could single-handedly change matches that may prove to be crucial.
Of course, there are huge question marks over his fitness, although this feels like the only likely scenario that suits all parties involved.
A Leeds move would be the best option for Kalvin Phillips
Returning to a fan base that loves him would do his confidence the world of good and Phillips certainly knows what it takes to play for the Leeds badge.
Not only did he help them gain promotion to the Premier League, but he then played an integral role in achieving a ninth-placed finish under Marcelo Bielsa in 2020-21.
| Stat | Phillips |
| Appearances | 234 |
| Goals | 14 |
| Assists | 13 |
His emergence under the beloved head coach saw him start for England at Euro 2020, coincidentally assisting Sterling’s opening day goal against Croatia, before playing a starring role in their run to the final.
Leeds have suffered plenty of injuries in midfield this season, with Ethan Ampadu, Ao Tanaka, and Sean Longstaff all being unavailable at different points.
Depth is definitely needed, and Phillips looks like the most realistic option to join the Peacocks in January, something that supporters certainly won’t be displeased by.
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