Kalvin Phillips
(Credit: Imago)
Pranav Shahaney
Tue 19 August 2025 21:10, UK
Kalvin Phillips is expected to leave Manchester City this summer amid links to Leeds United and other Premier League clubs.
Daniel Farke wanted new midfielders at Leeds and the board backed him as they aim to avoid relegation this season.
Anton Stach and Sean Longstaff moved to Elland Road, adding bodies to a midfield that already comprised Ethan Ampadu, Ao Tanaka and Ilia Gruev.
Kalvin Phillips Ipswich Town Leeds United
Phillips was on loan at Ipswich Town. (Credit: Imago)
Leeds cool interest in Phillips
While Phillips was linked with Leeds earlier in the summer, there were always reservations about his high wages.
Given City’s deep pockets, the England international is said to be on £150,000-a-week at the Etihad Stadium.
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Conversely, when Phillips was at Elland Road, he was said to be pocketing £80,000 every week.
Club Appearances Goals Assists
Leeds 234 14 13
Man City 31 1 –
Ipswich 22 1 –
West Ham 10 – –
Phillips’ career stats.
He has also battled injury issues since leaving Leeds – something that any club looking to sign him will be taking into consideration.
According to the Daily Mail on 19 August, while other Premier League sides want to sign the 29-year-old, the Whites are no longer pursuing his services and have cooled their interest, despite wanting to sign him on loan earlier in the window.
Anton Stach at Leeds United looking serious
Stach made his Leeds debut against Everton. (Credit: Imago)
Farke would much rather have Stach and/or Longstaff over Phillips
Leeds’ decision to sign Stach and Longstaff over Phillips was strategic, aligning with Farke’s vision for a robust, dynamic midfield suited for Premier League survival.
Stach, a 6’4” Germany international, offers physicality and strong passing ability, making him a versatile, commanding presence.
Longstaff, acquired from Newcastle, brings Premier League experience, excelling in tackles and blocks, ensuring reliability in Farke’s 4-2-3-1 system.
Phillips, despite his Leeds legacy, has struggled with form and injuries since leaving in 2022, managing only 32 appearances across loans at West Ham and Ipswich.
Farke prioritises Stach and Longstaff’s current fitness, tactical fit and cost-effectiveness over Phillips’ uncertain recovery from an Achilles injury and high wage demands, securing a stronger midfield foundation.
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