Leeds United recently announced that Kalvin Phillips had signed a new deal at the club that will run until the summer of 2024. 

The 23-year-old had been attracting interest from Aston Villa in the summer transfer window, although a move to Dean Smith's side never materialised as Leeds stood firm in their valuation of the midfielder.

In a recent interview with the Yorkshire Evening Post, former Leeds boss Neil Redfearn issued his thoughts on Phillips' new deal at Elland Road.

"I am chuffed for Kalvin and Leeds that he is staying with them and has got a five-year deal. He is someone they have got to build a side around – his improvement has been that good.

The 54-year-old also claimed that the midfielder is Leeds' number one asset, and was pleased to see Phillips extend his stay with Marcelo Bielsa's side.

"Leeds want to put a marker down and try and get promoted and Kalvin is their number one asset and they have done the sensible thing and shown a bit of foresight and it has to be applauded."

Phillips will be hoping that Leeds can return to winning ways when they take on Barnsley at the weekend, in what could potentially be a tricky test for the Whites as they look to return to the automatic promotion places.

The Verdict: 

He's been brilliant for Leeds in recent seasons.

Without Phillips in their team, Bielsa's side look like a team that are shaky at the back, which is understandable given that the midfielder offers the ideal protection to the likes of Liam Cooper and Ben White.

Phillips has deserved a new contract for a while, and the Elland Road faithful will be delighted to see him extend his stay at the club despite attracting interest from Premier League sides.