Leeds looking to bring Kalvin Phillips back to club on loan if they gain promotion to the Premier League

Leeds are ready to explore an initial loan request to bring Kalvin Phillips back to the club if they can secure an instant return to the Premier League.

Phillips, currently on loan at West Ham, will return to Manchester City at the end of the season when current holders the Treble look to sell the midfielder on a permanent deal.

City want £30m for Phillips having signed him from Elland Road in 2022.

Phillips has deep-rooted emotional ties to Leeds, who are said to be interested in re-signing the 28-year-old provided he is back in the top flight next season.

Daniel Farke’s side are currently third in the championship, one point off the automatic promotion places.

Leeds will look to strengthen their squad this summer if they can secure a return to the Premier League and are keen to bring Phillips back to the club given his high-flying and international pedigree.

But there is reportedly a reluctance to meet City’s asking price of £30 million, particularly as a newly promoted club, while the question of Phillips’ £150,000-a-week salary brings another financial consideration.

Phillips will have other options, although West Ham are unlikely to look to agree a permanent deal for him after his difficult spell in London.

Newcastle became interested in Phillips in January. The midfielder, who was left out of the previous England squad, has made just three starts under David Moyes since arriving on loan from the Etihad.

Phillips has deep-rooted emotional ties to Leeds, who are reportedly interested in re-signing him