Leeds United appears poised to make a substantial offer of £30 million to secure the return of Kalvin Phillips once they ascend to the Premier League, as per the Sunday Mirror’s report.
The publication, detailed in its print edition on March 31 (page 65), suggests that the Whites are intent on reacquiring the 28-year-old for a sum £12 million lower than what they received from Manchester City when Phillips departed Elland Road for the Etihad in 2022.
Despite his struggles during a loan spell at West Ham, where a permanent deal seems unlikely, Phillips undeniably shone during his tenure at Leeds.
His exceptional performances earned praise from the likes of Paul Robinson, who deemed him “world-class” in 2021. Phillips also played a pivotal role in England’s journey to the European Championships final that same year.
However, since his departure, Phillips has only featured in 40 matches across both Manchester City and West Ham—a stark contrast to his over 230 appearances for Leeds in all competitions.
Phillips’ time at Manchester City and his current stint at West Ham have been far from ideal. He has found himself relegated to the bench at Manchester City and has faced criticism from West Ham supporters for his performances.
A recent altercation with disgruntled fans further highlights his challenging situation, with footage capturing Phillips responding with a gesture of frustration.
While the prospect of Phillips returning to Leeds may be enticing, there are doubts about whether he can replicate his past successes. His struggles away from Elland Road suggest that he may not thrive without the guidance of Marcelo Bielsa. Consequently, it raises questions about whether a reunion would be in the best interest of Leeds United.
However, the allure of Phillips’ previous contributions to Leeds cannot be ignored. His dynamic presence in midfield was instrumental to their success, and a return could potentially reignite his career.
Ultimately, it remains to be seen whether Leeds will proceed with their pursuit of Phillips and if the midfielder can rediscover his form in familiar surroundings.