Leeds United could have the perfect transfer gift waiting for Kalvin Phillips amid recent speculation about the midfielder's future. Phillips spent last season on loan at Ipswich Town from Manchester City, who signed the Leeds academy graduate back in 2022.
The midfielder made 22 appearances for the Tractor Boys as they were relegated to the Championship. Next season will see Leeds back in the Premier League after they clinched the Championship title.
Since promotion was secured for the Whites, speculation has been swirling about the players who may be targets heading into their return to the top flight. Reports have emerged over the last few days hinting that Phillips may be a target for United this summer.
The midfielder will return to Man City, where it remains to be seen if he will have a future at the Etihad Stadium. If Leeds were to pursue a deal for Phillips, they would have the perfect gift waiting for the midfielder on his return to Elland Road.
Leeds will have Phillips' old squad number available to new signings this summer. Phillips had the No.23 during his time with United, which was worn by Josuha Guilvaogui during their run to the Championship title.
It was confirmed last month that Guilvaogui will leave Leeds this summer when his contract expired, with the midfielder signing a deal that ran until the end of the season.
Phillips has not worn the No.23 since his time as a Leeds player. He was given the No.4 squad number upon his arrival at Man City, wore No.11 during a loan spell at West Ham and No.8 with Ipswich this season.
Since Phillips left Elland Road, Guilvaogui is the second player to wear the No.23 shirt for the Whites. Luis Sinisterra had the number for two years before his permanent move to Bournemouth in 2024.