Sheffield United are interested in Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips, reports The Athletic.
In a Q&A the newly appointed Leeds writer, Phil Hay, revealed the Blades were keen when asked about Phillips.
Some may remember Hay from his time at the Yorkshire Evening Post. During 13 years as part of their staff he became arguably the biggest authority about the club.
Which is why he has been appointed by The Athletic and their new venture into the UK and English football. It is also why he can be considered a trustworthy source.
Hay says there has been no movement from Bramall Lane to sign Phillips as yet, though. There has been much speculation about the 23-year-old’s future this summer, but so far no one has met his valuation.
The Whites are seeking £20m plus for Phillips. As things stand the most likely outcome is the Elland Road academy product stays put.
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Who else wants Kalvin Phillips?
Aston Villa have been trying to bring Phillips to Birmingham all summer. According to the Daily Star, they have already had two bids of £10m and then £15m turned down.
They have now stepped back from negotiations. Hay suggests their capture of Douglas Luiz from Manchester City has filled the gap Phillips would have.
The same Star report says Bournemouth and Southampton are also keen. However, they’re yet to make a move for a player who will enter the final year of his current contract in a little under a year’s time.
Leeds understandably want Phillips to stay and are willing to offer him a significant pay rise if he signs a new deal. What they can’t do is give him Premier League wages.
Burnley are the other side interested in Phillips. The Sun on Sunday (4/8; page 67) reports that they offered a fee plus Matej Vydra. Unsurprisingly this has also been rejected.