Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips is pushing for a return to Leeds United this summer, according to Football Insider.
The 29-year-old, currently on loan at Ipswich Town, has no future under Pep Guardiola and is expected to leave the Etihad permanently at the end of the season. City are willing to take a significant financial loss on the £45 million they paid for Phillips in 2022 to facilitate his exit.
Leeds United are monitoring his situation closely, with a potential return to Elland Road hinging on their ability to secure promotion back to the Premier League. Daniel Farke’s side currently sit top of the Championship table, level on points with Sheffield United and just two ahead of Burnley in third place.
Man City Open to Selling Phillips
Since leaving Leeds, Phillips has struggled for regular football, making just six starts for Manchester City before being loaned out to West Ham and then Ipswich Town. His stint at Portman Road has seen him feature 20 times across all competitions, though he has yet to establish himself as a key player.
With his contract at City running until 2028, both Phillips and the club are eager to reach a resolution this summer. Reports suggest City could demand as much as £30 million for his services, but Leeds would likely only pursue a deal if the asking price falls to around £20 million.
Leeds’ Promotion Key to Any Deal
A return to Leeds would only be possible if Farke’s side secure promotion. If they do, the club’s new ownership—49ers Enterprises—are expected to back an ambitious transfer strategy, with Phillips seen as a potential marquee signing.
Leeds have already been linked with a move for Roma striker Tammy Abraham, and Phillips’ desire to rejoin his boyhood club adds further intrigue to their summer plans.
Reviving Career and England Hopes
Phillips’ motivation for a return goes beyond club loyalty. He hopes to regain a place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad ahead of future international tournaments, and he sees regular Premier League football at Leeds as his best chance of achieving that.
The midfielder was a key part of Leeds’ promotion-winning side in 2020 and was instrumental in their first season back in the top flight. His performances under Marcelo Bielsa earned him the nickname “Yorkshire Pirlo” and endeared him to the Elland Road faithful.
Writer’s View
Phillips’ desire to return to Leeds is understandable given how his career has stagnated at Manchester City. However, financial realities could complicate the deal, especially if City demand a high transfer fee. Leeds’ promotion is the crucial first step, but if they secure a Premier League return, a cut-price deal would make sense for all parties involved.
