"Don't think Leeds could get anywhere near..." - Journalist now drops worrying Elland Road claim

Leeds United may struggle to tie Kalvin Phillips down to a new Elland Road contract as they cannot compete with the financial incentives Newcastle United could offer the midfielder, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Phillips is expected to be at the centre of a tug-of-war during the upcoming summer transfer window, with numerous clubs believed to be interested in the Whites’ academy graduate.

It has emerged that Newcastle could look to tempt Phillips to St James’ Park by offering a contract worth £120,000-per-week.

The Magpies are in a position to table lucrative personal terms following the Saudi Arabia-based Public Investment Fund leading a £305million takeover last October.

That resulted in Newcastle becoming the richest club in world football and the Tyneside giants clearly see Phillips as a long-term part of their plans.

Phillips’ current contract – which is not due to expire until the summer of 2024 – is worth £38,000-per-week, meaning heading to the Magpies would see him obtain a hefty pay rise.

But, according to the Mirror, the 26-year-old could still remain at Leeds as he has told the hierarchy he is prepared to sign a new deal in the summer.

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O’Rourke believes Leeds cannot compete with Newcastle financially and, as a result, could struggle to persuade him to sign on the dotted line.

The journalist told GIVEMESPORT: “When you’ve got the money at your disposal, like Newcastle do have, they can try and attract players to the club with lucrative contracts.

“I don’t think Leeds could get anywhere near what Newcastle could offer Kalvin Phillips.

“There is ongoing talks over a new deal for Kalvin Phillips at Elland Road but still nothing