Leeds United duo Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha could want to join West Ham if the east Londoners qualify for the Champions League, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The Lowdown: Leeds duo linked with West Ham

Phillips and Raphinha have been two of the star turns of the Marcelo Bielsa era at Elland Road, producing consistently strong performances in midfield and out wide respectively.

The pair have both been linked with a move to West Ham, though, as the Irons potentially eye up transfers elsewhere at the end of the season.

Phillips is reportedly happy to sign a new deal with Leeds, but Raphinha's future seems less assured, with the destiny of the Whites' Premier League status in May possibly proving crucial to keeping him (or both) in Yorkshire.

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The Latest: Journalist claims Leeds duo may want Hammers move

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O'Rourke claimed that the Leeds pair could want to join the Hammers if David Moyes' side finish in the top four this season, which looks a discernible possibility as they currently occupy fourth place.

The journalist claimed:

"Definitely would be more realistic if West Ham can offer the likes of Raphinha or Kalvin Phillips Champions League football.

"That’s where all the top footballers want to play. They want to play in the Champions League."

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The Verdict: Can't be ruled out

The lure of Champions League football is undoubtedly great, with the world's best players doing battle and a hugely prestigious piece of silverware up for grabs.

For that reason, the possibility of Phillips and Raphinha joining West Ham can't be ruled out, even if the Englishman still seems to be happy at his boyhood club.

Raphinha certainly feels the more likely of the two to move on, and his display in the recent 3-3 draw with Aston Villa earned him a four-out-of-10 rating from MOT Leeds News, who described it as his 'worst' performance for the club.

Nonetheless, as the Whites' top scorer in a season where goals have been in short supply, he would be a massive loss.

In other news, one Leeds target reportedly wants a Premier League move. Find out who it is here.