Manchester United get Kalvin Phillips 'boost' amid Leeds standoff and more transfer rumours

Manchester United’s pursuit of midfielder Kalvin Phillips has been given a boost after a reported breakdown in talks with Leeds over a new deal.

The England international is contracted at Elland Road until 2024 but has received considerable interest from Premier League rivals including Aston Villa and United. The Whites will not want to lose their star man this summer, but may have to take the hit to bring in reinforcements during the summer — should they avoid relegation.

If they don’t beat the drop, it is almost certain that their £60m asking price will be slashed. Phillips has missed a large proportion of the season with a hamstring injury but made his long-awaited return in the 1-1 draw with Southampton on Saturday after a four-month absence.

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Leeds have been keen to tie him down to a fresh contract but the Telegraph reports that negotiations have stalled. United are after at least one top midfielder this summer with Paul Pogba poised to exit. So they could try to tempt Phillips to Manchester.

Other possible midfield targets include Ruben Neves and Declan Rice, although both are likely to cost more than the £60m price tag put on Phillips. That said, both Leeds and West Ham are determined to keep their players while Wolves are reportedly resigned to the fact that Neves will leave Wolves in the next transfer window.

Meanwhile, Dutch outlet De Telegraaf have mooted that Erik ten Hag would want to bring defender Jurrien Timber with him from Ajax, should he be appointed as United’s next boss. The 52-year-old has already held talks with the club over the position and is the fans’ clear favourite.

Timber offers versatility with his ability to play