Report: Kalvin Phillips offered new and improved deal at Leeds United, Lewie Coyle departs

Today (05/07/19) it was reported by former YEP man Phil Hay that Leeds United have tabled a new contract offer for Bielsa’s lynch-pin and fan’s-favourite Kalvin Phillips. The local lad enjoyed a stellar season under Marcelo Bielsa, who saw great potential in Phillips in a surprising role as the team’s number four. The experienced Argentine was spot-on as Phillips showed exactly how good he was to all critics from the season previous. This follows relentless speculation that a £20 million bid had been rejected, with the asking price at £30 million as the Whites played hardball. Phillips is known to be a favourite of Bielsa and is see by the fans as a future Leeds captain, and we can wait and hope that we see the 23 year-old sign a new deal at Elland Road this summer.

Much like any player graduating from academy to the first team at Leeds United, Lewie Coyle had a lot of hope around him that he could step up in the wake of West Ham’s interest in Sam Byram. Coyle made his Leeds debut at Nottingham Forest, where Byram scored his final Leeds goal, showing an encouraging glimmer into what could be a great young player.

But as we have also seen with some academy products, it’s just not meant to be. Coyle now re-joins League One Fleetwood Town for a third loan spell, this time until January. Coyle has been a Cods favourite, playing 93 matches and assisting ten goals. It’s been clear for some time now that Coyle has not been seen as a player with a future at the club, but is yet to secure a permanent move away from the club, despite impressing Fleetwood gaffer, Joey Barton.