Kalvin Phillips had been linked with a return to Leeds United, but he instead sealed a deadline day move to Championship side Sheffield United from Manchester City
Bruna Reis
17:44, 04 Feb 2026Updated 17:44, 04 Feb 2026
Kalvin Phillips
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Kalvin Phillips will play for Sheffield United on loan for the remainder of the season(Image: Ryan Browne/Shutterstock)
Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has spoken highly of former Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips following his loan move to the Championship side. The midfielder, who has been at Manchester City since 2022, has failed to break into Pep Guardiola's team, leading to loan stints with West Ham, Ipswich Town and now Sheffield United.
Phillips' one and only appearance for City this season came in the final seven minutes of their Carabao Cup win against Huddersfield in September.
This prompted speculation over his future ahead of the January transfer window, with a potential return to Elland Road being touted.
Reports claimed that City were willing to listen to offers of around £10million for the 30-year-old, but in the end another loan move materialised.
After completing the deadline‑day switch to Bramall Lane, Wilder declared it a ‘good 48–72 hours’ for the club and shared his first impressions of Phillips, highlighting how he is ready for the fight ahead.
"It's been a good few days in terms of getting the likes of Joe and Kalvin through the building and Leo as well," Wilder said.
Kalvin Phillips
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Kalvin Phillips being introduced to the Sheffield United fans at Bramall Lane
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"Kalvin doesn't need any help. He's had a brilliant career and I'm not there to rub his head."
On Phillips' condition, Wilder confirmed: "I've got to say he's in good shape. He just needs to get into a rhythm, getting opportunities, which he will do, but maybe two, three or four games, and get himself back going again.
Chris Wilder
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Chris Wilder spoke highly of Kalvin Phillips(Image: Getty Images)
"He's impressed everybody with his attitude already, even though he's only been in the building for 24 hours, and same for Joe. Both wanted to come, which is a massive tick in the box for our club. And they both want to help."
Phillips, alongside new signings Leo Hjelde and Joe Rothwell, was introduced to the fans during Tuesday's 3-1 win over Oxford City at Bramall Lane.
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The midfielder's experience will be essential for the Blades for the remainder of the campaign as they fight for a play-off spot, with the side currently sitting eight points off sixth‑placed Wrexham.
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The City loanee could make his debut for the club in their home clash against promotion hopeful Middlesbrough on Monday (February 9).