Leeds United are reportedly interested in re-signing Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City in the next summer window, if they win promotion back to the Premier League.
It is known that if Leeds are promoted, they would make major investments in the summer transfer window, with the purchase of a reliable midfield anchor being one of their top goals.
The 28-year-old England international left Leeds for Manchester City during the summer transfer window in 2022.
The Premier League champions paid roughly £42 million for the central midfielder, who is expected to compete with Rodri in City’s engine room.
However, after recovering from a protracted injury, Phillips struggled to establish himself in Pep Guardiola’s squad and was loaned out to West Ham United for six months during the January transfer window.
According to Football Insider, Leeds expect Phillips to return to the Etihad Stadium at the end of this season and then be sold on a permanent basis.
According to the source, the 28-year-old midfielder is still highly valued by the Yorkshire club, and they will work on a contract to bring him back to his boyhood club if they return to the top flight.
Daniel Farke’s side is presently second in the Championship after a 3-1 victory over league leaders Leicester City on Friday evening.
Undoubtedly, Phillips’ road since leaving Leeds has not been smooth, especially after Guardiola acknowledged that he does not see the midfielder in Manchester City’s future plans.
“I’m not sure what is going to happen. I am deeply sorry for my decision for him. I’ve said it several times. He does not deserve what has happened to him, and I sincerely apologize.
“All I can say about him is that I am looking for decent personalities and traits, and he is an excellent example. After that, I had to give him something, which I did not do.
Phillips’ first few outings at West Ham have also been disappointing, as evidenced by an error that resulted in a goal on his debut against Bournemouth, followed by a red card against Nottingham Forest two weeks later.
However, while returning to the club where he earned his name may be appealing, the most obvious impediment to a deal is his current wage, which is thought to be over £140,000 per week.
As a result, Leeds may be dependent on Phillips’ willingness to accept a considerable salary decrease before discussing any prospective return.
The Whites will return to action on Wednesday night, hosting Chelsea in the fifth round of the FA Cup.
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