Former Leeds United and Manchester United midfielder John Giles has claimed that the Whites will struggle to hold onto Kalvin Phillips if their rivals from across the Pennines come knocking. The Red Devils have been heavily linked with a move for the England star and could make a move in the summer.
Phillips’ allegiance to Leeds could well stand in the way of a move to Old Trafford, especially given the reaction to similar moves previously. Although, if he and his team mates are unable to stay in the Premier League this season, the 26-year-old will want to be playing at the top level.
Giles, who swapped Man United for Leeds back in 1963 believes his former clubs could do business again in the summer. He told Off The Ball : "I'd have no doubt that, if the fee is right, Leeds would let him go. It's Leeds. They are not a club that are going to be buying players.
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"They haven't done it in the last few years, anyway. I can't remember the last time they bought someone. If the offer was good enough, I think they'd let him go."
Giles believes Phillips would be a good fit for a Man United side whose midfield is missing a player of his profile. Although, the 81-year-old does believe that the Leeds man still has a couple of shortcomings in his game.
"I think he'd do well there," he added. "I wouldn't say he's the complete midfield player, but I think he could do a job. He's a very energetic lad.
"He is not going to dictate play in the midfield. He will win tackles, he can distribute it okay. I think he would be a good player for Manchester United in the position that United are in at the moment."
Before Leeds start worrying about trying to tie him down a new contract at Elland Road or negotiating his departure, there are bigger fish to fry. After making his first start since December in the goalless draw against Crystal Palace, Phillips will be desperate to make a telling difference in the five remaining games of the season.
