Leeds United are reportedly interested in re-signing Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City this summer, provided they are able to earn promotion back to the Premier League.
It is understood that if Leeds secure promotion, they are expected to make significant investments ahead of next season, and the acquisition of a solid midfield anchor will be one of their top priorities.
The 28-year-old England international departed Leeds for Manchester City during the summer transfer window of 2022.
The central midfielder was acquired for a fee of around £42m by the Premier League champions and was believed to have been purchased with the intention of providing competition for Rodri in City's engine room.
However, following his return from a lengthy injury, Phillips struggled to secure a place in Pep Guardiola's setup and was sent on a six-month loan to West Ham United during the January transfer window.
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According to Football Insider, Leeds are expecting Phillips to return to the Etihad Stadium at the end of the current season and will be sold on a permanent deal thereafter.
The report adds that the 28-year-old midfielder is still highly regarded at the Yorkshire side, and they will work on a deal to bring him back to his boyhood club if they return to the top flight.
Daniel Farke's side are currently in second place in the Championship standings following a notably impressive 3-1 triumph over the current league leaders Leicester City on Friday evening.
Undoubtedly, Phillips' journey since departing Leeds has not gone well, particularly after Guardiola admitted earlier this season that he struggles to see the midfielder in Man City's future plans.
"I don't know what's going to happen. I feel so sorry for my decision for him. I've said that many times," Guardiola told reporters. "He doesn't deserve what has happened to him and I'm so sorry.
"The only thing I can say about him is I am asking for good personalities and characters and he is a perfect example. And after that I have to give him something and I didn't do that.
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"It's just because I visualise some things and visualise the team and things - and I struggle to see him."
Phillips' first few performances at West Ham have also been underwhelming, highlighted by an error that resulted in a goal during his debut against Bournemouth, followed by a red card against Nottingham Forest two weeks later.
However, while a move back to the club where he made his name may be tempting, the most apparent hurdle to a deal is his current salary, which is estimated to be around £140,000 per week.
Consequently, Leeds may depend on Phillips's willingness to accept a significant reduction in his salary before any potential return can be discussed.
The Whites will be back in action on Wednesday night when they play host to Chelsea in the fifth round of the FA Cup.
Devesh Jaganath
