Leeds United are pushing to keep hold of Kalvin Phillips.
The Sun says Leeds remain hopeful Phillips will sign a new deal with them – despite interest from Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola has made a replacement for Fernandinho a priority for the summer transfer window.
The champions have ruled out moves for Declan Rice and Frenkie de Jong this summer– but Phillips would fit the bill at the Etihad.
He is one of a number of options that City are currently looking at to provide competition for Rodri as a defensive midfielder.
However Leeds are still battling to persuade him to commit his long-term future to them after they avoided relegation on the final day of the season.
His current deal runs until summer 2024 and any move might be complicated by the fact he is due to change agents this summer.
Leeds were resigned to losing their homegrown star had they gone down to the Championship – particularly with the World Cup looming this autumn.
But there is a quiet optimism now they might be able to persuade Phillips, 26, to give them at least another 12 months.
Need a VPN? Or seeking to switch? Then support Tribal Football by clicking here to sign up with our official partners NordVPN. Not only will you receive the best VPN experience, but also great discounts by signing up via Tribal Football. Thanks for your support!