Leeds United are believed to be close in their efforts of reaching an agreement with Kalvin Phillips regarding a new contract, according to a report by TEAMtalk.
It is claimed that the Whites could be prepared to offer the midfielder new terms that would make him one of the highest earners at Elland Road.
Aston Villa have been heavily linked with a move for the 23-year-old throughout the summer and are thought to be preparing to up the ante in their pursuit.
Phillips was a key performer for Marcelo Bielsa and Leeds last season and keeping him at the club beyond the summer will be a huge coup for the club.
A mainstay in the side, the 23-year-old was instrumental for the Whites last season as they fell just short of obtaining promotion to the Premier League. He averaged the most tackles in the side by registering 2.6 per 90 mins and an average of 1.3 interceptions (WhoScored), proving how crucial he has been to the Championship outfit.
Noel Whelan has been singing the midfielder’s praises for a while and stated back in April that every club needed a player of Phillips’ type in their side.
“Kalvin Phillips has been absolutely immense, he’s like an unsung hero,” Whelan said on the Sporting Life Football Championship podcast.
“Sometimes teams that are successful, win Championships and win Premier Leagues and trophies, need a Kalvin Phillips in that team. He just allows the wing-backs to get forward and gives you that peace of mind and security at the back.”
If Leeds are able to get Phillips to commit to a new deal, it would have to be considered as a positive development.
As described, the 23-year-old was hugely influential in Bielsa’s side last season and played a vital role in helping them almost break their 15-year hiatus from the Premier League with his performances.
With Aston Villa looking to up the ante in their pursuit of the Championship midfielder, it could be an interesting month at Elland Road.
Leeds fans, how big would it be to see Phillips sign a new deal at the club this summer? Let us know what your thoughts are by sharing them with us below in the comments section!
