Phillips choice lifts Bielsa as Leeds make big decision on £34m duo

Kalvin Phillips TEAMtalk

Kalvin Phillips is reportedly ready to reject any advances to leave Leeds this summer amid claims Aston Villa and Wolves were preparing big-money approaches.

The Daily Telegraph claims that Phillips is emerging as one of Villa boss Dean Smith’s top targets, following promotion to the Premier League and is said to be preparing a £14million approach.

Smith is said to be prioritising a defensive midfielder, after the departures of experienced duo Glenn Whelan and Mile Jedinak, and Phillips is seen as a player who can make the step up.

Phillips, who has also been mentioned in a potential swap deal for Wolves star Helder Costa, is understood to be valued at around £20million by United. However, it is understood that the Leeds-born midfielder has no desire to leave Elland Road this summer and wants to stay loyal to the club for at least one more year.

While he could enjoy a huge salary increase by moving to the Premier League, we understand Phillips is keen to stay loyal to Marcelo Bielsa and try and help the club achieve their dream of returning to the Premier League.

The 23-year-old is a key player for Bielsa, playing in front of their defence and orchestrating the play from his deep-lying midfield role.

And it seems Leeds are also ready to reject any approaches for the player too, with the Daily Star claiming United will rebuff all bids from Premier League sides for the player, as well as his teammate Jack Clarke.

The teenage winger has been heavily linked with a move to Tottenham this summer and it was reported on Thursday that Mauricio Pochettino’s side are prepping a £20m approach to the Yorkshiremen.

However, the Star claims Leeds will reject all advances for the star duo this summer and turn their backs on a potential £34million pay day in an effort to keep their squad intact ahead of another push for promotion.

A push from either player to leave could yet alter Leeds’ stance, but, having been buoyed by Phillips’ wish to stay, long-suffering supporters of the club at least have hope.

 

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