Kalvin Phillips transfer interest hits Manchester City stumbling block | OneFootball

Transfer interest in Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips this summer appears to hit a stumbling block as monitoring mounts from his former home.

Phillips’ future remains unresolved as the midfielder edges closer to full fitness after Achilles surgery in May. The 29-year-old, who joined the club from Leeds United in 2022, has been widely expected to move on this summer after falling firmly out of Pep Guardiola’s plans.

His time at the Etihad Stadium has been hampered by injuries and limited game time, leaving both player and club open to a fresh start off the back of largely unsuccessful loan spells with West Ham United and Ipswich Town over the last 18 months.

The England international spent the last campaign at Portman Road, and while the spell helped Phillips get slightly more minutes and trust from manager Kieran McKenna under his belt, it has done little to convince potential suitors that he could play a meaningful role in their squads moving forward.

A return to Elland Road has long been touted as a natural next step, given Phillips’ deep connection with Leeds fans and the club’s need for top-flight experience. Leeds, newly promoted back to the Premier League, are looking to strengthen in key areas to ensure they can consolidate their position in the top division.

According to The Mirror’s Simon Mullock, while Phillips is on the radar of his former club following last season’s loan spell at Ipswich, the England midfielder’s £120,000-a-week wages are claimed to be an issue for bosses at the Yorkshire club.

With Phillips’ Manchester City contract running until the summer of 2028, his salary represents a significant commitment for any suitor, let alone a club working with the financial caution that often comes with promotion.

Leeds would likely require City to subsidise part of his wages in the event of a loan, or Phillips himself to agree to a pay cut if a permanent transfer is pursued. Should the financial impasse persist, Phillips may find his options narrowing as the summer window progresses.

While there is still expected to be interest from elsewhere in the Premier League and abroad, his preference for a return to Leeds could leave negotiations in a delicate position. If no resolution is found, City could be forced to consider another temporary move, mirroring last season’s loan approach.

However, with Phillips nearing the age where consistent playing time is crucial for his career, both player and club will be eager to secure a long-term solution sooner rather than later.