THE door may be open for Liverpool to sign Leeds talisman Kalvin Phillips because he is ‘worried about’ joining Manchester United, reports suggest.
The Red Devils and Leeds have a long-standing cross-pennine rivalry, and Phillips doesn’t want to risk upsetting his family by moving to Old Trafford.
The Daily Star report that Red Devils chiefs are keen to launch a £60million move for the 25-year-old, but his connection to Leeds means Phillips remains hesitant.
Another factor is family, including mum Lindsay, all live in the Yorkshire city.
And Phillips is worried they will be subject to abuse from Leeds fans should he join bitter rivals United.
As a result the England star would be reluctant to pull on the colours of United.
He is even said to have ‘made it clear’ to his family and friends that he has no desire to play for the Red Devils.
Phillips joined the Elland Road outfit at 14-years-old and has played 223 times for the club.
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The news comes as a blow to Manchester United who are crying out for a central midfielder to replace the heavily criticised Fred.
Old Trafford bigwigs had been plotting a £60million move for Phillips if attempts to sign Declan Rice failed.
It also means Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool could have a clear shot at signing the 19-cap England man.
The Reds failed to replace Georginio Wijnaldum in the summer after he moved to PSG.
Leeds though are in a strong negotiating position, with Phillips under contract at the club until 2024.
Bosses though would rather keep him in his hometown, and are happy to renegotiate his contract to make him the highest-paid player in the squad if it meant keeping him long-term.
Boss Marcelo Bielsa’s future though is a cause of concern for Phillips.
The unpredictable Argentinian could move on at the end of the season, which would likely prompt Phillips to consider his future.
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