Andrea Radrizzani is fearful of a Leeds United fan backlash if he was to sanction the sale of Kalvin Phillips this summer, according to the Mirror.
The newspaper claims that Aston Villa are lining up a £14million bid for the 23-year-old midfielder following a superb season at Elland Road in which he was a key player in the Whites’ third-placed finish.
It is understood that Leeds would want over £20million for Phillips, but they would risk a furious reaction from the supporters if they were to cash in on the midfielder as it would “undermine Radrizzani’s commitment” to winning promotion.
The Mirror adds that the Yorkshire giants hope that Phillips has a future with them in the Premier League and that owner Radrizzani would find it “extremely difficult” to agree his sale.
OPINION
Leeds fans will obviously want to see Phillips stay put at Elland Road this summer, but what if Aston Villa do end up matching that £20million-plus valuation of the Englishman? What then? Imagine what Marcelo Bielsa and Victor Orta could do with that much money. Phillips was central to everything last season and when he played at the base of the midfield, the Whites usually won. However no one should be seen as a irreplaceable and every player has their price. Bielsa will find someone who can play in Phillips’ role who might be cheaper and maybe even younger. He could also sort out the club’s lack of goals from up front and the lack of options on the wings and at centre-back. All of those issues could potentially be solved if they receive £20million for Phillips. Leeds have a big summer on their hands and they should start to progress with some deals in the coming weeks. Offloading Phillips before any of those deals are done could lead to some major rethinking about the club’s approach to the window.