Manchester United told how Sir Alex Ferguson increased transfer price for £100m Kalvin Phillips

Paul Parker says Manchester United will have to pay "close to £100million" for Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips.

The England international has been repeatedly linked with a move to Old Trafford as the Reds' midfield problems have coincided with the 26-year-old's rise to prominence both domestically and on the international scene.

This summer, United have highlighted their midfield department as the biggest problem as they gear up for a busy summer transfer window with their shortcomings repeatedly laid bare during a hugely underwhelming season.

Former Reds full-back Parker has praised the midfielder but thinks the Whites would need near £100m to relinquish one of their prized assets.

"You'd have to pay close to £100m [for Kalvin Phillips]," he told bettors.co.ke.

“The only way Leeds fans are going to be seriously angry about a player leaving them to come to Manchester United, is if they don't get good money for him.

"The only way you are going to appease Leeds fans is if you are getting a lot of money.

"It can't be as how it happened with [Eric] Cantona, how cheap Sir Alex [Ferguson] got him for. The Leeds fans won't accept that with a local boy."

He added: "I like Kalvin Phillips. I like what he does.

"I like the way he plays. He's not expansive in his game. Keep it simple. He wants to move the ball around in short areas. Not looking for the killer passes. He would add something to that midfield."

Sign up to our United newsletter so you never miss an update from Old Trafford this season.