Sky Sports journalist shares Leeds United and Kalvin Phillips transfer update after Man City star spotted at Elland Road

Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips will not be returning to Leeds United despite his recent visit to Elland Road, according to Tim Thornton.

The Sky Sports journalist stated that he witnessed his former side secure a 3-0 victory over Birmingham on New Year’s Day, but that does not mean a reunion is on the cards.

While the England international is expected to leave in the January transfer window, he’s not going to be back in West Yorkshire.

Thornton said on Sky Sports News (7:54pm, 3 January): “He was spotted at Leeds United versus Birmingham but he won’t be going back to Elland Road in this transfer window so, Leeds fans, don’t get excited.”

Too good to be true

Phillips holds a special place in the hearts of Leeds fans, having been a pivotal figure in their journey back to the Premier League after a 16-year absence.

His loyalty and contributions on the pitch, including scoring crucial goals and playing a crucial role in their promotion-winning campaign, have endeared him to the Elland Road faithful.

Beyond his footballing prowess, the 28-year-old also made a positive impact on the local community, further solidifying his status as a modern-day legend.

While Leeds fans would undoubtedly welcome Phillips back with open arms, the practicality of a reunion faces significant challenges as the club’s current status in the Championship, after achieving mid-table stability in the Premier League, makes the financial demands of a player of Phillips’ calibre challenging to meet.

His hefty wage demands, coupled with Leeds’ need to navigate the financial constraints of the Championship, make a reunion unlikely, at least in the immediate future.

He’ll still have lower-half Premier League sides willing to take a punt on him and one cannot fault him as the competition at Manchester City is extremely high with world-class players in each position.