Huge headache awaits Leeds in summer as news of improved January bid for starter emerges

Leeds United will reportedly face strong and increased interest in Kalvin Phillips this summer amid claims they rejected a second and improved bid for the England star on transfer deadline day.

The January window passed by at Elland Road without a single first team incoming or outgoing. And while efforts to sign Brenden Aaronson ultimately failed to bear fruit, the fact Leeds successfully starved off bids for Phillips and Raphinha is most welcome news.

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Indeed, interest in England star Phillips has remained strong ever since Marcelo Bielsa took charge at Leeds. They batted off serious interest from Aston Villa after their promotion miss in 2019; the player then signing a new five-year deal at Elland Road.

However, they also had to bat off a firm approach from West Ham in the most recent window.

Indeed, the Hammers saw an opening £50m offer for the star rejected by the Whites.

Now it’s emerged that West Ham chief executive Karren Brady contacted Leeds counterpart Angus Kinnear on deadline day with an increased bid. As per The Sun, they saw an increased late approach, worth £55m, also fail to convince Leeds to do business.

Given Leeds’ precarious position just above the relegation places, that certainly feels like the only stance they could take.

And while Phillips has missed the last six games with a hamstring problem, they could ill afford to weaken their squad further.

However, reports claim several clubs are likely to be back in for Phillips