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Fresh update on top-quality star could spell trouble for Leeds amid interest from Man Utd

Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips warming up for England

Leeds United are reportedly hopeful in keeping hold of Kalvin Phillips for another year, despite an update that could play into the hands of Manchester United.

There has been a lot of speculation over the future of Phillips recently. The Leeds star was clearly one of their most important assets during their ninth-placed finish last season.

What’s more, his qualities shown upon Leeds‘ return to the Premier League helped him make his way into the England team. The Yorkshireman has played 19 times for the Three Lions so far.

His crucial role in England’s EURO 2020 campaign raised his stock massively. Despite Phillips missing a good period of this term through injury, he is still a target for some big sides.

Aston Villa and West Ham have been two of the most heavily linked clubs. A £50million Manchester United move has also been reported of late.

Indeed, those reports state that United are looking to prioritise the signing of a holding-midfielder.

While a move between Leeds and Man Utd seems unlikely, it has been done before. In recent times, Daniel James made the switch from Old Trafford to Elland Road.

And a fresh update could play into United’s hands.

Manchester Evening News reports that Phillips is about to switch agents. The report states that the 26-year-old is doing so with the thought of securing a transfer to a big club.

Leeds’ Kalvin Phillips stance remains clear

Kalvin Phillips, Leeds United lilac shirt, during Premier League game against Newcastle

Despite a lot of interest of late, Leeds’ stance has been clear. They do not want to see one of their most crucial assets leave.

And the recent update reinforces that point. It states that the Whites are ‘planning for’ next season with Phillips still at the club.

However, it does add that the Elland Road outfit are ‘resigned to’ the midfielder eventually leaving.

Whether United, or another side, can force a transfer before next season remains to be seen. But with Erik ten Hag taking the reins at Old Trafford, there are likely to be some interesting dealings going on, and Phillips could be one of those.

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