Just three games into the 2025-26 season and Leeds United have already suffered a mini injury crisis in midfield after Daniel Farke confirmed a new update regarding Ao Tanaka.
Tanaka has picked up the exact same injury as Ethan Ampadu. Both have suffered MCL injuries and while Ampadu is expected back after the September break, Tanaka is set to miss the next few weeks for Leeds.
It leaves Leeds with just three options to choose from in midfield, with Daniel Farke keen to play three in midfield rather than a 4-2-3-1. Against Newcastle, Sean Longstaff will surely start against his old side.
But Leeds need cover. The clash this weekend will see Leeds have to start Longstaff, Anton Stach and Ilia Gruev and risk not replacing them. A midfielder could be targeted and a familiar face is now available.
Kalvin Phillips could still end up at Leeds United this summer
After a dismal three years at Man City in which he has gone on loan to West Ham and Ipswich, Phillips will be desperate for a move. But with Phillips costing £45m, and three years left on his deal, a move is tricky.
But Phillips would surely jump at the chance to join Leeds. He is fit again after being spotted watching The Kaiser Chiefs in a protective boot at Temple Newsam and now, Leeds are being linked with him again.
LeedsUnited.News have been previously told that Phillips had chosen to join Leeds. Now, Graeme Bailey has informed LeedsUnited.News that there is a “good chance” Leeds sign him after their two injuries.
Bailey told us regarding Phillips: “Leeds are keeping very close checks on Kalvin Phillips – am told that Man City might be trying to pay up his contract – there is still a good chance he ends up at Elland Road.”
What Kalvin Phillips will have to do to sign for Leeds United
There are two major obstacles Leeds would have to overcome. The first is Phillips’s wages at Man City. It is believed he earns £140,000 a week and Phillips would have to take a big pay cut, maybe half to join.
Leeds have worked hard to keep their wage budget at a minimum. The other is Phillips’ injury status and if he’s worth the risk. Leeds have shown they are willing to sign injury-prone players already this summer.
Phillips would want the move and if City do opt to release the England star, then it would wipe away the need for a transfer fee and could allow Leeds to pay him more in wages. One to keep an eye on this week.
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