Phillips wouldn't be allowed back in Leeds if he made Man United transfer, talkSPORT told

Phillips is Leeds born and bred, coming up through the club's academy before emerging as a star under current boss Marcelo Bielsa.

His improvements earned him a place in Gareth Southgate's starting line-up at Euro 2020, with the 25-year-old an integral part of England's run to the final.

Phillips' performances during the summer have inevitably earned him links to a number of Champions League level teams, with one surprise name recently emerging: Manchester United.

The two clubs possess an intense rivalry which has been rekindled since Leeds returned to the top flight, and and Danny Mills is just as aware of the tensions as anyone.

The former England right-back spent the majority of his career at Elland Road, and understands why Phillips is attracting such attention.

"He's an outstanding player, we know that, he's absolutely superb," Mills said. "His performances for England have put him on a whole new level.

"There will be a lot of interest from a lot of clubs.

"Who needs a midfield player? Manchester United do. Declan Rice, Kalvin Phillips would be there."

United were strongly linked to Phillips' international midfield partner Rice during the summer transfer window, but were reportedly put off by West Ham's £100million asking price.

However, there's reason to suggest that Phillips may be an easier purchase, with Leeds currently in the Premier League's relegation zone after a poor start.

And queried about the potential of him swapping Yorkshire for Lancashire, Mills said: "I mean other players have done it, Rio [Ferdinand] left, Rio was only there a year, Alan Smith did it, and he's not particularly welcome back in Leeds now.

"Kalvin is Leeds through and through but if they come knocking…

"I'd have never gone to be honest, I'd have never played for Man United… well I never got asked!"

Mills was then questioned by talkSPORT Breakfast host Laura Woods if Phillips would be welcome back in his hometown if he cross the divide, and his answer was straight to the point.

"No," he said.

Phillips has repeatedly been questioned about Manchester United with a reporter previously asking what the club means to him.

"To me?" Phillips said. "It doesn't mean anything."

A Leeds fan also recorded himself asking Phillips what he should do about his stepson supporting Manchester United, to which he replied "I'd kick him out."