NafisaLeeds United have been linked with a potential reunion with academy product Kalvin Phillips in the upcoming summer transfer window as they gear up for a return to the Premier League.
Phillips has endured a tough spell since departing Leeds for Manchester City in 2022. A shortage of minutes resulted in a disappointing loan stint at West Ham between January and June last year.
Last season, he spent time on loan at Ipswich Town, but he wasn’t able to prevent the newly promoted team from dropping back to the Championship.
It’s shaping up to be an active summer for Leeds, with the club set to support Daniel Farke in the market. The Whites have already been associated with a number of potential signings, but appear to have missed out on goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, who is edging closer to a switch to top-flight rivals Brentford.
In recent days, speculation has intensified around a potential move for Phillips, with a £10 million valuation mentioned. With that in mind, here’s the latest on the midfielder.
Leeds’ position:
According to LeedsLive, the club views Phillips as a high-risk option due to his salary and injury record, making a return seem unlikely.
Phillips is reportedly earning over £150,000 per week at City, whereas Leeds’ top deal is believed to be around £80,000 weekly. His fitness issues are also a point of concern.
Premier League loan regulations also differ from those in the EFL, with top-tier clubs only permitted two domestic loan players in their squad. As a result, Leeds may hesitate to use one of those slots on someone deemed a gamble.
Injury setback:
Phillips is expected to miss at least part of pre-season after undergoing surgery on an Achilles problem. The midfielder is anticipated to regain fitness in August, but this could potentially affect any summer move from Man City.
He is set to complete his recovery at City, making use of the club’s facilities while he seeks a new destination, whether on loan or in a permanent transfer.
Phillips seen in Leeds:
Phillips has, however, been spotted back in Leeds, attending the Kaiser Chiefs’ homecoming concert at Temple Newsam.
Former boss Simon Grayson posted a photo on social media featuring Phillips alongside Luke Ayling, Stuart Dallas, and Josh Warrington. Phillips was seen wearing a protective boot following the earlier surgery.
Door remains open:
City’s current transfer strategy suggests there’s no future for Phillips at the Etihad once he recovers. Without a pre-season to impress Pep Guardiola, the midfielder faces an uphill battle.
The challenge is further intensified by City’s reported pursuit of AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders, with a proposed £55m fee on the table.
If that deal goes through, it would likely push Phillips further down the squad hierarchy at City.
A departure—either on loan or through a permanent switch—now appears to be the most realistic route before the transfer window closes.
Nafisa
