Connor Humm

Fri 1 April 2022 16:00, UK

Alan Hutton has suggested Leeds United may “cash in” on a big-name star to continue following the Leicester City “model” outlined by Andrea Radrizzani.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Scotland defender insisted Kalvin Phillips, 26, and Raphinha, 24, are the two “standout” candidates to leave Elland Road this summer.

As reported by the Athletic’s Phil Hay (March 28), it seems likely Leeds could sell a major asset to boost the club’s transfer budget and improve their recruitment.

Hay highlighted Leeds’ desire to follow Leicester’s model of squad building, which involves not selling off more than one top player in a summer window.

Owner Radrizzani has singled out the Foxes as a blueprint he wants to copy on numerous occasions.

Speaking to Forbes in December 2021, the Italian revealed Leeds may have to sell “one or two key players and buy other talents coming up like Leicester did” to climb the table.

Hutton suggested a big player sale could be on the cards this summer.

Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “If that’s their model then they might need to cash in on somebody.

“There are a couple of obvious ones: Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha. They’re the two standouts for the big money. I’m pretty sure the Leeds fans will not be happy if any of them go.

“But if that’s their model and the way they like to do business then that’s what screams out at you. First and foremost, they’ll have to stay in the league. If they don’t, all these guys will go anyway.

“But if they do, I think they do need reinforcements, they need help. To sell off one of your top assets isn’t great. If you can reinvest that, do it well, and your recruitment is good then, of course, it can work out.

“There’s a lot of ifs and buts in there. We’ll have to see what they do. Ultimately they won’t want to sell but if the fee is right, like any club, they will sell.”

In other news, Football Insider can deliver a major update on Leeds United midfielder hunt after talks held.