Leeds United remain locked in an impossible battle to keep one of their star players amid strong claims made by one observer about a possible transfer to Manchester United.
Phillips is one of the lowest-paid players in the England squad with his wages dwarved by many Three Lions stars. As such, Leeds know they’ll soon need to reward him with an improved contract to keep him at Elland Road.
The 25-year-old signed his current deal in 2019. That five-year deal runs to 2024 – but was signed before he played for his country and even before Leeds’ promotion.
That deal did contain provisions that saw him earn an increase upon promotion. However, we understand Leeds still want talks over an extension.
Leeds’ current top earners are attackers Rodrigo Moreno, Raphinha and Patrick Bamford. The latter recently put pen-to-paper for the Whites on a new deal worth an estimated £70,000-a-week.
And as per our exclusive, Leeds are ready to open talks to extend Phillips’ deal and reward him for his progress.
Now, as per the Daily Telegraph, a new deal for Phillips is close to being agreed.
However, despite Phillips’ curt comments about Manchester United in the past, Alex McLeish claims a firm approach from Old Trafford would be impossible to ignore.
“It will be tough for him to turn it down, 100%,” he told Football Insider.

“Jack Grealish was a fan of Aston Villa all his life, but he had his head turned by a dominant club like Manchester City.

“It’s the same thing – if [Manchester] United come and go all the way with their interest, it is hard for him to stay.”