Phillips 'knows he's going to leave Leeds' after source reveal - pundit
Frank McAvennie is certain Leeds are trying to protect themselves by offering Kalvin Phillips a new deal.
The former West Ham hitman, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, reacted to the latest on the Whites star.
Football Insider exclusively revealed on 16 September that Leeds have opened new contract talks with the midfielder.
A United source has updated to tell Football Insider Phillips is keen to put pen to paper on an extension before the end of the year.
His current Elland Road contract is set to expire in the summer of 2024.
Phillips' previous deal included a release clause that would have come into effect if Leeds failed to win promotion in the 2019-20 season.
The midfielder's stock rose considerably over the summer as he shone with at Euro 2020 with England.
McAvennie claims Leeds are fearful over Phillips running his contract down and leaving for far less than he's worth.
"It's a very sensible move," McAvennie told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
"He could always run his contract down and no one wants that. He's a Leeds boy and he knows he's going to move.
"It's a great idea. He had a cracking Euros and we all know how good he is.
"We know there is interest and when the time comes Leeds are protected a bit more now."
Phillips has made five appearances for the Whites this season.
He has also played in the EFL Cup and scored in a 3-0 win over Crewe Alexandra.