Kalvin Phillips is keen to put pen to paper on a new deal at Leeds United, according to a club source.
The Lowdown: Loyal to Leeds
Phillips, 25, has become one of the most highly-rated defensive midfielders recently and has been linked to Manchester City as Fernandinho’s replacement.
After it was claimed earlier in the month that the England international and Leeds have opened talks about a potential new deal at the club, Phillips has gone on to play every minute of Leeds’ season so far after missing the 5-1 opening day defeat to Manchester United.
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The Latest: Source revelation
According to Football Insider, a source within the club has revealed that the midfielder is ‘keen’ to put pen to paper on an extension before the end of the year, with his current deal expiring in the summer of 2024.
Reacting to that, former Premier League striker Gabby Agbonlahor said: “He’s going to have aspirations of playing at the top.
“I’m sure his agent will say, ‘We’ll sign a new contract with a release clause.
“Then Leeds will get the right sort of money that they deserve. He doesn’t seem like the sort of player who would want to leave Leeds for a small fee because he’s got a year left.
“I’m sure within the next two seasons he’ll get that move.”
Agbonlahor also commented on Phillips’ potential price tag: “Someone like Phillips, I would say is worth around £60million or £70million, so the release clause would be around £60million.”
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The Verdict: Good news for Leeds
Keeping hold of your key assets is vital for every football club, especially clubs who are seeking to improve and potentially break into the top six and compete in European football on a regular basis.
Phillips’ importance to the Whites is clear to see. He started 28 of his 29 appearances in his debut season in the Premier League, partnering that with a 85% pass completion rate per game and 2.6 tackles per 90 minutes.
Whilst a new deal with a release clause may eventually mean he will leave Leeds,it does mean they will receive a hefty and warranted fee that they will then be able to spend elsewhere to improve their squad.
Whether his desire to pen a longer contract results in an extended stay or a massive move elsewhere, the club will benefit regardless.
In other news, this former Premier League striker has criticised the form of a certain member of Marcelo Bielsa’s side. Find out more here.
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