Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips' next move could be one of the biggest transfer stories of next summer, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The Lowdown: Phillips' future up in the air

The 25-year-old has been a colossal performer for the Whites over the years, with his reputation growing all the time for both club and country. Indeed, England manager Gareth Southgate has hailed him as "excellent".

With Leeds struggling this season, though, Phillips has been linked with a high-profile move away in the summer, with both Liverpool and Manchester United tipped to sign him.

The Englishman's current deal runs until the summer of 2024 but there has been no progress with regards to a new contract being signed.

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The Latest: Journalist hints at Phillips exit

Speaking to Give Me Sport, O'Rourke claimed that there will be a battle to sign Phillips at the end of the season, perhaps suggesting that his time at Leeds is reaching its conclusion. He said:

"Kalvin Phillips could be a big story in the summer. Before his injury, he just kept improving. I think he proved what a top performer he is for England."

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The Verdict: Will he move on?

The idea of Phillips signing a new contract at Leeds can never be ruled out, but he may well feel that he has come as far as he can in a Whites shirt. He is only averaging 0.6 key passes, 2.3 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per game in the Premier League this season, compared to 1.2, 2.6 and 1.6 respectively last term (WhoScored).

He hasn't necessarily been in top form in the current campaign, with injuries holding him back, and it could be that his mind is focused on a fresh challenge.

In truth, having excelled on the big stage at Euro 2020, Phillips deserves to be playing Champions League football given the quality of his performance in recent years. Sadly, that is not something Leeds can currently offer, nor are they likely to in the foreseeable future.

In other news, Leeds are reportedly keen on signing a striker. Find out who it is here.