Many fans are divided on the possible return of Kalvin Phillips this summer, but the transfer happening has plenty of obstacles.
It’s looking more and more likely that Phillips’ tenure at Man City is coming to an end this summer.
The 29-year-old midfielder has endured a disappointing time in Manchester since his £42m move from Leeds in 2022.
There have been plenty of rumours surrounding a return for the ‘Yorkshire Pirlo’, but Phillips won’t be fit until August, which causes concern.
Adding to this, Phillips’ wage structure might be too high, and now it’s been revealed what the likelihood is of him returning to Elland Road.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
The likelihood of Kalvin Phillips’ return to Leeds United
With there still being admiration on both sides of the pond from both fans and the player, there is every chance a deal could happen.
The midfielder has found himself stuck for a while now, as the choice to leave Elland Road three years ago hasn’t gone to plan.
Eddie Gray doesn’t want Phillips to re-sign as he can see the problems that come with it, but mainly didn’t think he was that impressive at Leeds to start with.
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Well, speaking to Leeds Live, Manchester Evening News writer Simon Bajkowski has been able to provide insight on Phillips’ situation.
“Everyone would love a sale just so all sides can move on from what has been a disastrous move, but it will depend on whether buying clubs are prepared to take a gamble,” Bajkowski said.
“City wouldn’t want or expect a big fee for him, but in today’s environment, where everyone is obsessed with PSR, even £10m or £15m could be seen as more than people are willing to risk.
“He will leave in some form because there is no chance of him playing for Pep Guardiola in the first team, it is just what deal can be negotiated.
“Given the last three years, it would be a surprise if he was a top priority for a leading club, but there may well be several interested parties who see him as a cheap alternative they can take a punt on later in the window.”
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Daniel Farke should avoid Phillips’ Leeds return
The saga will no doubt continue throughout the whole window, but the obvious is standing out to Daniel Farke and the 49ers.
That being obvious, don’t sign Phillips.
Not only do his excessive wage demands provide problems, but now with an absence from football till August, a fairytale return for Phillips shouldn’t happen.
These factors obviously contribute, but his actual form for his previous loan club, Ipswich Town, was once again dismal.
Phillips’ statistics for Ipswich Town in 24/25 season
Games played 19
Pass accuracy % 81.1%
Dribble success % 45.5%
Tackles won 19
Duels won per 90 4.87
Phillips could find his form at Elland Road once again, but where Leeds are compared to Phillips at the moment is a stark contrast, and they must focus on the project at hand.