Kalvin Phillips was subject to plenty of interest in the summer transfer market as the defensive midfielder drew attention from newly promoted side Aston Villa. However, Leeds United were able to keep hold of him, and this was considered a big success for them in the transfer market.
The midfielder’s contract at the club runs until 2021 and securing his long term future is said to be high on the agenda of the club. According to Phillips’ agent Kevin Sharp, as quoted by the Yorkshire Evening Post, the talks between the two parties have been ‘very promising’, and Leeds United are getting closer to getting him on a new deal.
Update on Phillips’ contract situation
Sharp recently said, ”It’s clear for all to see that the owner, Victor Orta and the manager all see Kalvin as a major player in the squad, No matter how important he is, they want to get the best deal possible and I want to get him the best deal possible. Kalvin is really happy to stay and wants to sign a new deal. We had a very amicable meeting; we all came out very positive. It looks very promising, that’s as much as I can say.”
The deal is not yet over the line, but the latest update from his agent should be music to the Leeds United fans’ ears. The English midfielder has emerged as a vital cog in Bielsa’s wheel, and even though he was offered a big-money move, the Whites managed to keep hold of him.
Leeds United will also need to ensure they get to the Premier League by next season as Phillips is too good a player to be playing in the Championship for long. Various top-flight clubs are already interested in him, and without Premier League football, the club will most likely lose him even if he signs on a new contract this season.
Why is he vital for Bielsa?
Phillips’ ability to play in defence and defensive midfield is a significant asset for Bielsa. Recently Phillips featured in the centre of the back three against Stoke, and he looked at ease playing in that role. His reading of the game, ability to nick 50-50 balls and being strong and robust in challenges when required makes him a decent defensive option.
The Englishman’s on the ball abilities and calmness to dictate play from the back takes his game to another level. Hopefully, United can get him on a new, improved deal. Then by next season, if they move to the Premier League, Phillips might very well become a club legend.
