Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips' exit from Elland Road ‘is in motion’, according to journalist Tom Young.

The Lowdown: City rumours

Phillips has been heavily linked with an Elland Road exit since the turn of the year, with the likes of Aston Villa, Newcastle United and West Ham all showing an interest - the Hammers even had a bid rejected in January.

Manchester City joined the race more recently, as they reportedly now have Phillips at the top of their list to replace Fernandinho and believe that the England international possesses the perfect profile to fit in at the Etihad Stadium.

Phillips was in the process of changing agent back in April so his future is up in the air, but it looks as if the Premier League champions have begun work on a potential deal.

The Latest: Journalist’s update

Writing on Twitter, VAVEL's Etihad editor Young shared an update ‘on Phillips’ on Wednesday afternoon.

Replying to a City fan, Young claimed that a possible transfer is now 'in motion', although there is still a 'way to go' in terms of a deal going through.

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The Verdict: A worry…

With Leeds securing their Premier League status on the final day, you get the feeling that Phillips will either remain at the club or join Pep Guardiola’s side over the coming months.

Moving to the likes of Villa, Newcastle or West Ham may have been options if the club were relegated, but the local lad will surely only want to leave for a serious upgrade, so it is a worry to know that City are well and truly in for the boyhood Whites fan.

Phillips could reportedly triple his current Elland Road salary at the Etihad, work under one of the best managers in the world and play Champions League football. All of the above is extremely tempting for any player, so Leeds may find it difficult to keep hold of their star midfielder with work on a transfer underway.

In other news: Victor Orta now spotted 5.6 miles from stadium of 'quality' Leeds target dubbed the ‘new Drogba'.