Leeds United could see a familiar former face return this summer in Kalvin Phillips. But for Daniel Farke, there’s a much better option, and likely a much cheaper one available to him.
Kalvin Phillips and Leeds United have been tipped to reunite for some time now. This summer, following his Ipswich Town side’s relegation and his return to Man City where there are zero signs of a future for the 29-year-old, a return to Elland Road has been discussed.
It’s been claimed by multiple sources that Leeds United are considering a return for Phillips this summer. And it’s also been revealed that Phillips is keen to return to Leeds United this summer; almost desperate for a return in what could be a bid to get his career back on track.
Leeds United fans have mixed feelings about Phillips returning. He’s not been the same player since he left for Man City in 2022 and he’d no doubt command a huge weekly wage too, with Leeds’ money perhaps being better-spent elsewhere.
In fact, the club’s money could be put to use on Middlesbrough midfielder Finn Azaz.
Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Leeds United are interested in signing Finn Azaz
Among the midfielders linked with a move to Elland Road this summer is Azaz. The Republic of Ireland international, 24, has just capped a stellar season in the Championship for Michael Carrick’s Boro, scoring 12 and assisting 11 more in 45 Championship games for the club.
Recent reports have revealed how Leeds United are interested in signing Azaz this summer, along with names like Gustavo Hamer and James McAtee who could yet bolster Daniel Farke’s midfield ranks in this summer’s transfer window.
And now, the Whites have a clear opening to sign Azaz with a recent report from EFL Analysis confirming that Middlesbrough are ready to sell Azaz this summer, with Boro reportedly valuing the former Aston Villa man at £20million. It’s been reported that Leeds United have a £100million transfer budget this summer.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
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Finn Azaz’s stats trump Kalvin Phillips’ in the Championship
Phillips was no doubt a modern day legend for Leeds United. He was a key part of that 2019/20 promotion-winning campaign at Elland Road and he’s someone who’s done the club proud, going on to play for Man City and England.
But his time has seemingly come and gone. Now it could be time for someone like Azaz to step up to the Premier League with Leeds United, and his stats in the second tier this season suggest that he could be ready to take the top flight by storm.
Stat (Champ.) Phillips 19/20 Azaz 24/25
Apps 37 45
Goals 2 12
Scoring freq. 1627 mins 298 mins
Assists 2 11
Big chances created 6 10
Tackles PG 2.6 0.9
Azaz has this incredible nous for goal and for Farke, having multiple scoring outlets in his side next season will be vital in keeping Leeds United in the Premier League for years to come.
Not just that, but the central midfield area is one that is both light on numbers and light on goals too, with the likes of Ao Tanaka chipping in with just five goals last season too.