Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips could be earmarked as a potential successor to Fernandinho, former Manchester City defender Steve Howey has told The Transfer Tavern.

Fernandinho is now 36 years of age and his contract at the Etihad expires next month.

It means the Premier League champions could soon find themselves searching for a long-term replacement, with Howey liking the look of Phillips.

The 25-year-old has been a key player for Marcelo Bielsa this season, making just under 30 appearances in his debut English top-flight campaign.

Presently, there is nothing to suggest that Manchester City are interested in the player. Howey, however, would not be surprised to see that change.

When Asked by TT whether Phillips could be a target for his old side if Fernandinho leaves, the retired Premier League footballer said: "He could well be.

"I actually had a conversation with Gareth Southgate about him and I said I was blown away [over] how good he was. We were at Everton and I watched Everton against Leeds and he was excellent. He ran the show."

As well as being able to run the show, Phillips would also be capable of adding some real steel to this Manchester City side.

According to WhoScored, the England international made 2.6 tackles per game in the Premier League campaign that has just gone, the third-highest average in Leeds' squad.