Manchester City could pay to offload unwanted first-team star this summer | OneFootball

A significant pay-off could be sanctioned by Manchester City this summer in order to offload Kalvin Phillips from Pep Guardiola’s first-team squad, according to reports.

The 29-year-old midfielder has endured a frustrating spell at the Etihad Stadium since his £45 million move from Leeds United in 2022, and now appears to be firmly outside of Pep Guardiola’s plans heading into the new campaign.

After difficult loan spells at West Ham in the second half of the 2024/25 season, and most recently at Ipswich Town for the duration of the last campaign, Phillips returned to City only to undergo surgery on an Achilles issue in May. Expected to regain fitness by August, a full recovery is still unlikely to change his standing in Pep Guardiola’s squad.

There is now a growing sense that the midfielder’s wages could prove problematic in sealing a return to Elland Road, with Leeds United – who were promoted back to the Premier League last season – keen to reunite with the England international.

However, operating within tight financial parameters, regional reports in May noted that while Leeds remain interested in their former star man, his salary would need to be significantly reduced or subsidised for any agreement to be possible.

Now, according to the information of LeedsUnited.News’ Graeme Bailey, Manchester City are currently considering a bold approach, at a huge financial cost, to offloading Kalvin Phillips from their squad this summer.

“I’m increasing in belief that Leeds are waiting for Phillips, as well. I’m even hearing Man City might pay him off,” Graeme Bailey has claimed this week.

He continued, “It might cost City a lot [with three years left on his contract], but I think he will end up at Elland Road.”

Should City opt to go through with a financial settlement, it would likely involve a lump sum or staggered payment to cover a portion of Phillips’ remaining contract – which still has three years to run.

There is also the possibility of City subsidising Phillips’ wages as part of a loan agreement back to Leeds – a more common strategy that could help ease the transition while the midfielder rebuilds his form and reputation. That route may still be more attractive to all parties if a permanent solution cannot be reached.

For Phillips, a return to Elland Road would provide a timely career reset. At 29 and theoretically entering his peak years, he may still remain a player of interest to England’s Thomas Tuchel – provided he can find form and fitness.