Leeds United could be handed a bitter blow with the news that midfielder Kalvin Phillips could be ready to force through a move away from the club.
Phillips has been the talk of many a transfer rumour this summer but was seemingly set to stay put at Elland Road after the Whites slapped a hefty price-tag on his head.
However, in a new turn of events according to the Sun on Sunday, it appears Phillips could be set to turn down any new contract offer at Elland Road and enter the final 12 months of his deal next year, essentially forcing Leeds’ hand into a sale.
Phillips has become an integral cog in the Marcelo Bielsa machine and he will no doubt play a vital role next season as the Whites once again look to make a run at promotion. Last season, he made 44 Championship appearances, showing his importance to his Argentine boss.
Indeed, Phillips has been the dominant player in the middle of the park for Leeds, where he averages highly in the tackling and interceptions per game stats , while he also displays impressive defensive capabilities, with 2.6 clearances per game.
This sort of balance in midfield would be hard for Bielsa and Leeds to replace, where, for comparison purposes (per Whoscored), Sheffield United midfielder Oliver Norwood – one of the standout players in the division last term – averaged very similar stats to Phillips.
This would be a massive blow to Leeds if they were to lose Phillips, whether that be now, or in the future.
It’s really going to make them think about what they want to do, as they won’t be able to command such a fee for him next summer if he does stay and doesn’t extend.
In short, Leeds are in a really tricky situation.
Leeds fans, can the club keep hold of Phillips? Tell us what you think by commenting below!
