Phillips edges closer to Leeds renewal

Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips is edging closer to signing a new contract at Elland Road, according to the Telegraph.

The 25-year-old has been the subject of links with elite clubs in the Premier League, including Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and arch rivals Manchester United.

But John Percy reports that Phillips “is in advanced talks with the Leeds hierarchy”, and is set to renew his current deal that runs out in 2024.

Speaking at Thorp Arch in today’s press conference, manager Marcelo Bielsa did not rule the Yorkshire Pirlo out of a potential Elland Road exit, but eased any fears of the England international crossing the Pennines for the Red Devils.

“He’s very important to us. I’ve seen conduct in him I rarely see in a player. For a player to decline a club from a higher level (referring to Aston Villa two years ago) due to the love of a club he is at is not frequent,” the Argentine said.

“One day he will stop playing for Leeds and the way he does it will convert him into an idol forever. I have a feeling. It’s intuition. I’m sure he would only leave if he sees the link to the place he was born remains intact. He will know how to do this.”

Former Leeds player Kevin Sharp, agent of Phillips, has said that he’s had “positive discussions” with the club.

“I can only see a positive outcome. Kalvin’s desire is to stay at Leeds. There is a real willingness from all sides to make it happen.”

Meanwhile, Phillips has also been called up to Gareth Southgate’s latest England squad today. He will link up with the Three Lions ahead of their 2022 World Cup qualifiers away to Andorra and at home to Hungary, and will hope to add to his 17 caps.

Striker Patrick Bamford misses out through injury.