Manchester United’s need to sign a midfielder has been a topic of discussion for a long time. The club were expected to add reinforcements to their midfield department last summer. But they did not end up doing so, despite making several additions elsewhere on the pitch. And in hindsight, that appears to have been a mistake on the part of the Red Devils.
Amid doubts over the Old Trafford future of Paul Pogba, Manchester United have been linked with a number of midfielders as potential replacements. Leeds United’s Kalvin Phillips remains one of the most interesting ones among them. The midfielder’s rapid rise to prominence has attracted the attention of several Premier League giants.
Rated very highly, the English international played an integral role for Gareth Southgate’s side at EURO 2020 in the summer and was later named the England men’s player of the year.
As a result, Manchester United’s links with a player of his quality requires no further explanation. The Red Devils have been handed a transfer blow though.
Manchester United handed surprising Phillips transfer blow
Despite being surrounded by rumours over his future, Phillips appears to want to continue playing for Leeds United. He recently admitted that he is happy at the club and wants a new contract.
As reported by the Daily Mail, Phillips said:
"‘I just want to focus on getting back fit.‘But I speak to the owner regularly. I want a new contract. I’m very happy here.’"
Phillips’ comments might mean that Manchester United need to look at the alternatives as the Englishman seems ready to remain at his boyhood club.
Nicknamed the ‘Yorkshire Pirlo’, the midfielder has made 15 appearances this season, according to stats from Transfermarkt. Phillips has missed the recent run of games for Leeds United through a hamstring injury.
There is no doubt that Phillips would be a sensational signing for Manchester United. But it looks like the Leeds United midfielder, who was born in the city, came through the club’s youth ranks and has played for them his entire senior career, might want to remain where he is despite there being interest from elsewhere.