Transfer insider Dean Jones believes there is ‘still a chance’ that Leeds United keep hold of Kalvin Phillips beyond the summer.

The Lowdown: Villa interest

Phillips made a return to the matchday squad for the first time since December prior to the international break in Leeds' 3-2 win at Wolves.

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The central midfielder failed to feature from the bench, and just days later, reports suggested that Aston Villa are leading the race for his services this summer.

Villa are apparently ready to pay Leeds £60m for Phillips and would offer the 26-year-old a contract worth in the region of £10m-a-year (£192,000-a-week).

Leeds are confident that their star man and boyhood Whites fan will remain at Elland Road, with the reliable Graham Smyth claiming a new deal will be a priority over the summer.

The Latest: Jones’ comments

Speaking to The Transfer Tavern after that update from Smyth, Jones had this to say on Phillips, claiming there is 'still a chance' he could stay in Yorkshire.

“But with Kalvin Phillips, if I was a Leeds fan, I would have some optimism right now amid all the headlines of which club is he going to end up at. Still a chance he might stay.”

The Verdict: Fingers crossed

It looks as if Raphinha could well leave the club at the end of the season, with Barcelona keen on taking the Brazilian to the Nou Camp.

Providing Leeds remain in the Premier League, you’d expect that they will have a better chance of keeping the England international at the club over their South American star.

Phillips wanted a new deal back in December, and it seems as if one will be forthcoming over the coming months, so should the Whites be able to give him what he wants, there is every chance he’ll still be a key Leeds player ahead of Jesse Marsch’s first full season in charge.

In other news: 'Been told' - Sky Sports journalist now drops big Raphinha 'update' as Leeds exit gathers pace.