Rumours linking Kalvin Phillips with a sensational return to Leeds United have rumbled on for the best part of a year now. And they’re not going anywhere any time soon.
Kalvin Phillips remains in limbo over his next move. Ipswich Town look unlikely to make his loan deal from Manchester City permanent as they face relegation back to the Championship, whilst Pep Guardiola seemingly has no plans for the 29-year-old.
But with Daniel Farke’s Leeds United eyeing promotion to the Premier League there’s the inevitable cries for the Whites to re-sign Phillips and to give him the platform to get back on track after a tough few years for the Whites academy graduate.
Recent reports went as far as claiming that Leeds United had agreed to sign Phillips from City upon their possible promotion to the Premier League this season, although those claims were quickly played down.
It’s seemingly back to square one for Phillips who’s never ruled out a return to Elland Road. But it’s thought that a return would be difficult because of his wages: per Capology, he earns a staggering £150,000-a-week.
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Leeds United ready to do loan deal for Manchester City man Kalvin Phillips
But in a bid to skirt around the issue of wages, transfer expert Graeme Bailey has now revealed to Leeds United News that the 49ers are ready to do a loan deal for the Englishman. Bailey also backs Phillips to eventually return to Leeds one way or another.
Bailey said to us: “I firmly believe Phillips will return to Leeds. A loan deal would be appealing to them and fit in with their budget – whether that was Premier League or Championship. I fully expect Leeds to get promoted but even if they didn’t I believe he will be at Elland Road next season.”
As things stand, Leeds remain in 1st place of the Championship table after a 2-2 draw with QPR last time out. They’re level on points with Sheffield United in 2nd whilst Burnley in 3rd are now only two points behind.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
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Kalvin Phillips’ promise to Leeds United fans after leaving in 2022
In the summer of 2022, Man City paid a £42million fee to sign Phillips from Leeds United. But after making the switch to the Etihad, Phillips made a promise to Leeds United fans that he’d see them again one day, possibly hinting at his willingness, or rather his eagerness to return one day.
He posted on social media: “You are the best fans in the world. Good luck to everyone involved with Leeds United. I love you all and will miss you. Never goodbye. I WILL see you soon. MOT!”
And it looks like this summer is the best time for the two to reunite. Phillips will surely want out of City and Pep will surely be eager to finally get him off his books, though doing so on a permanent basis may be easier said than done given his wages.
If Leeds could front up part of his salary then City might be willing to send him out on loan again. And Phillips would surely take up the chance to return to Leeds, even if it’s just on loan.