Good Morning. It's Thursday 8th July, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Phillips happy at Leeds and doesn’t want to move
After another fine display for the three lions last night, Kalvin Phillips stature amongst the midfield elite continuous to grow; as does the desire for the top clubs in Europe to try and lure the 25 year old away from Elland Road. Phillips agent is Kevin Sharpe, who started his career at Leeds as a left back back in 1992. Although becoming an England U18 International, Sharpe was far down the pecking order at ER, and was eventually sold to Wigan three years later. After his football career came to an end, he tried his luck with Management (with Northwich Victoria and Harrogate Town), but it didn't work out, so he became a licenced agent!
After much speculation about Phillips future, Sharpe has set the record straight, telling would be suitors that Phillips is going nowhere...
Liverpool have yet again been linked to a move for Phillips, this time with a suggested price of £80m.Before Kalvin signed the final contract, we were so interested that we sat down and looked at all the strengths and weaknesses. His hope was never to leave, but to stay and play for the team he supported as a kid. The contract he signed in September 2019 included provisions for Leeds to reach the Premier League, so everything is ready for the top flight. We knew it was a bit of gambling, but we knew Leeds would get there under Bielsa, and obviously they did.
There may be clubs that are actually watching Kalvin right now, because the more successful you are, the more interesting it is to play for England in bigger tournaments, of course. But Kalvin is happy with Leeds and doesn’t want to move anything. It’s the case of taking over what you’re doing for the club and the country.
Leeds rejected undisclosed offer from PSG bid for Meslier
French giants Paris St Germain have had an undisclosed offer knocked back by Leeds for the services of French U21 shot stopper Illan Meslier. According to various sources, including the Athletic, Leeds then made their position very clear, so much so that director of football, former Brazilian International Leonardo, has switched his attention to AC Milan's keeper Gigio Donnarumma.
Two more academy stars heading for exit
Several media sources are suggesting that Jordan Stevens and Bryce Hosannah have no future at Elland Road, and will be shown the door.
Hosannah joined from Crystal Palace in August 2017, going straight into the U23's, where he picked up many positive reviews. Last season he was sent out on loan to Bradford City. At first things were going so well, that Leeds extended his contact for another season. Unfortunately the 22 year old was hampered throughout the rest of the season with hamstring problems.
Stevens too, was seen as an up and coming talent that shone through at U23 level. He was signed in 2018 from Forest Gren for an undisclosed sum. He too had a difficult season on loan, not being able to replicate the form he showed for Mark Jacksons team.