The Mirror claims Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips has told friends he will reject a move to Manchester United – leaving Manchester City on pole. The England star also has interest from Aston Villa and West Ham.
Phillips, 26, has endured a frustrating season both personally, and with his boyhood club Leeds. The midfielder spent four months on the sidelines with a hamstring issue, while Leeds are in serious danger of suffering relegation.
With Leeds close to the relegation zone, interest in Phillips is hotting up. The Yorkshire-born star might even be tempted to go, even if Leeds do stay up. Manchester City are leading the race for the £50million-rated star.
That is, after the Mirror claim Phillips has told those close to him that he would reject any move made by Erik Ten Hag’s newly-inherited side. Newcastle and Villa are still keen, after bids were rejected in January.
Phillips to reject Manchester United, Manchester City now on pole
It would be a wonderful move for Phillips. While it will break the Leeds star’s heart to leave the Whites, many would understand if he was to leave for Pep Guardiola’s side. It would be a different story, if it was Old Trafford.
Leeds and Manchester United are bitter rivals, and previous transfers between the two has angered Leeds fans – Alan Smith, the latest example. For a Leeds boy, to join United, fans would be apoplectic. City, fair enough.
Replacing Fernandinho in City’s midfield would be by no means, an easy feat. Phillips must also consider if he would play regularly or not, given City still boast Rodri. A player that has arguably been one of City’s best.
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