Kalvin Phillips has been reported as a target to return to Leeds United this summer, and Patrick Bamford has now spoken out on the topic.
It is now difficult to forecast transfer outcomes at Elland Road in the summer, owing to the fact that no one knows what division Leeds will play in next season.
Regardless of the club’s attitude, transfer rumors persist, including the possibility of an emotional reunion with Kalvin Phillips.
Reports: Leeds linked with loan move for Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips.
Phillips’ stint at West Ham is not going as planned, with David Moyes unable to rediscover the brilliance of the Manchester City man on loan, who was seen regularly under Marcelo Bielsa.
Injuries and a lack of playing time at the Etihad have hampered the 28-year-old’s search for consistency, as has his recent time at West Ham.
According to the Daily Mail, Leeds want to re-sign Phillips on loan in the summer window if they get promoted, hoping to avoid the Citizens’ hefty £30 million asking price.
In response, the YEP poured cold water on the links, citing considerable financial barriers to signing the high-earning Phillips from Manchester City, even if Leeds were promoted.
On the newest episode of the My Mate’s A Footballer podcast, Joe Wilkinson questioned Leeds forward Patrick Bamford about the recent links between Phillips and the club.
Bamford played it down, offering nothing but praise to his former teammate:
“I believe Kalv moved to City to train alongside good players, which would help him improve. However, training on a daily basis differs significantly. Starting with a few minutes and progressing to matches.
“Unfortunately for Kalv, he’s gone to West Ham, where he lacks match sharpness. He’s playing catch-up because it’s midseason. Social media is bad. It is unfair. He does not stop being a top player.
“After winning England’s Player of the Year, I found myself unable to play for any Premier League team. Next season, Kalv will have a strong preseason wherever he goes. We will see the best of him again.”
Bamford may be correct, but Phillips should not come to Leeds.
According to what Bamford has mentioned, Phillips may require a smart trade and a full pre-season to regain his form.
However, the team that signs him will have to make a considerable commitment, either in terms of a transfer fee or loan salaries, which makes little sense for Leeds.
Everything positive about signing Phillips comes with a big ‘if’, and there’s no assurance he’ll ever reach the heights he attained under Bielsa.
Quiz: Does Patrick Bamford have more or fewer Leeds United goals than these 15 past players?
