Kalvin Phillips and Patrick Bamford
(Credit: Imago)
Rahul Lakhani
Tue 27 May 2025 7:40, UK
Leeds United are back in the Premier League, and have already been linked with a move for former star Kalvin Phillips.
Phillips was a crucial player under Marcelo Bielsa the last time Leeds were in the Premier League, but his big-money move to Manchester City did not work out for anyone.
The midfielder has struggled since, while Leeds badly missed his presence in the middle of the park and were relegated in 2023.
Patrick Bamford thrived alongside Phillips in the Premier League, and he has now sent his former teammate a message following another difficult campaign.
Phillips struggled at Ipswich this season
Phillips bids farewell to Ipswich after loan
Phillips has had a nightmare time since leaving Leeds and has embarked on several loans since, with his latest coming at relegated Premier League side Ipswich Town.
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However, he again failed to make an impact, and could not stop them from being relegated straight back down after achieving promotion last year.
The former England star could not stay fit for the whole season and has now admitted his frustration with how the loan went, as he bids farewell to Portman Road.
Stat Phillips
Appearances 234
Goals 14
Assists 13
Phillips was outstanding for Leeds
“A frustrating end to a tough season. I just wanted to say thank you to Ipswich Town. Thank you to the fans for making me and my family feel so loved after a difficult two years,” he posted on Instagram.
“Thank you to the staff and players, an unbelievable group that I loved being around every day. And a special thanks to the manager, a great manager but also a great person, who’s helped me on and off the pitch in so many ways.”
Bamford has liked his post, but the two are unlikely to be reunited at Leeds this summer for several reasons.
Leeds linked with Phillips return
Phillips will likely be available for transfer again this summer, whether on loan or a permanent deal, and if Leeds want to bring him back, they may be able to.
However, with Phillips struggling at Ipswich and West Ham on loan, it may be that the Premier League is currently unsuitable for him, and he may need to drop down to the Championship to revive his career.
If Leeds do elect to re-sign Phillips, in the hope that a return to Elland Road can help get the best out of him, it is still unlikely that he will be reunited with Bamford.
Bamford is likely to depart this summer after a disappointing campaign, and he recently admitted that a move to the MLS in America could be on the cards at some point in his career.
Change is coming at Elland Road, and it could be drastic.
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