Paul Robinson believes Leeds United can afford a deal for Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips by unloading players already on loan.
Phillips has been linked with a return to Elland Road during the summer transfer window, should the Whites be promoted to the Premier League.
Even if Leeds do return to the top division, they may have to smash their transfer record to get Phillips from Manchester City.
While raising the necessary finances appears to be a challenge, former Leeds goalie Robinson believes it is possible.
“We understand all about PSR and FFP. “That’s something Leeds will have to be aware of if they make it to the Premier League,” Robinson told MOT Leeds News.
“Loaning out some of these guys might be a profitable business. At the same time, they will aim to improve the quality of their squad.
“If you look at Marc Roca, Rasmus Kristensen, Brenden Aaronson and others, if you can stockpile money from those and put it towards a Kalvin Phillips deal, you won’t find many Leeds fans against that.”
How much did Manchester City pay for Kalvin Phillips?
It’s only been two years since Phillips left Leeds for a well-deserved transfer to City, yet his career has plummeted off a cliff almost immediately.
From being labeled as a “machine” by midfield great Frank Lampard to now struggling for playing time at loan club West Ham, it’s been quite the journey.
The Citizens paid a reputed £45 million to sign the England international [Sky Sports], and his current club is expected to demand a similar fee if he moves on this summer.
However, City is aware that Phillips’ stock has deteriorated, and they risk having a disgruntled player on the bench who Pep Guardiola is reluctant to utilize.
If that amount can be reduced to, say, £35 million, Leeds will undoubtedly have a decision to make if promoted to the Premier League.
Daniel Farke has some extremely talented central midfield alternatives, but the German will undoubtedly want to recruit another player or two in that position.
And if Phillips can recover his earlier form at Elland Road – he is only 28 – it would be a wise investment.
