Stefan Borson: Man City could let Kalvin Phillips join Leeds for free
Kalvin Phillips has endured a disappointing spell at Manchester City over the past three years.
Football Insider revealed in October Phillips is “almost certain” to leave Man City in the January transfer window.
The 30-year-old has been continuously linked with a return to Leeds United since leaving Elland Road to join Pep Guardiola’s side for £45million in the summer of 2022.
Leeds could make a move to re-sign Phillips in January after he’s been deemed surplus to requirements at the Etihad Stadium.
However, Wolves have also been linked with Phillips as they look to strengthen their midfield options in their fight against relegation.
Man City could get value out of future Kalvin Phillips sale
Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider Guardiola’s side could be willing to let Phillips join Leeds on a free transfer.
Phillips returned to Man City in the summer after spending last season on loan at Ipswich Town, who he was unable to help avoid relegation to the Championship.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the midfielder returning to Leeds, Borson said: “Clearly, the player desperately needs a move. He’s not going to play for City. I think he’s somebody with a decent attitude. I’m sure he’s not completely depressed about the situation, but it’s not good for him, so he has to move.
“I think City will be prepared to pay the vast majority of those wages, maybe all. I mean, why wouldn’t you be? City are getting nothing out of him.
“Why wouldn’t you give yourself a chance for him to resurrect his career and try and get some value out of a future sale, even if it’s a free transfer, to be honest, just to get him off the wage bill.”
Phillips has played just seven minutes for Man City this season after coming off the bench in the 2-0 victory over Huddersfield Town in the Carabao Cup in September.
Man City could ‘heavily subsidise’ Phillips deal
Borson believes Phillips would be willing to take a pay cut to re-join Leeds.
“I think City will make a contribution,” said Borson.
“I think the player probably would take a pay cut as well if that was required to get him a move. Leeds might not be interested, but if they are interested, I think there’s a very good chance that deal could be done.
“It makes perfect sense and I’m sure City would heavily subsidise the deal. There’s no choice now, right? We’re well past the point where you can play any sort of hardball in a negotiation.
“The market’s dead for the player and he’s not required at City. It’s similar to a number of other players around the big clubs. There are lots of examples of these highly-paid players that are no longer wanted. You’ve got to find a solution for them.”
Phillips previously made 234 appearances during his time at Leeds, while he’s featured just 32 times for Man City over the past three years.
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