It had recently been reported by The Sun that Manchester United were weighing up a transfer swoop for Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips.
Phillips has started all 14 league games for Marcelo Bielsa's side this season, and is likely to be one of the first names in the squad for the Yorkshire-based side.
The 23-year-old penned a new contract extension earlier this year, but that seemingly hasn't deterred any interest from the Red Devils, who will be keen to strengthen their squad when the January transfer window opens.
Speaking in an interview with Football Insider, Noel Whelan has issued his thoughts on this latest rumour, and isn't worried that the Whites will be losing Phillips to one of their fiercest rivals anytime soon.
"He’s a Leeds lad, that would cause massive controversy if he left Leeds to go to United, I just don’t see it happening in this coming season.
"Kalvin has stated his loyalties to the club, his loyalties to getting the club back into the Premier League, he’s loyalties to stay as he is a Leeds lad and we were so pleased he signed a long-term contract.
"It’s one thing that is going to aggravate the Leeds United fans I’m sure but Kalvin has made it plainly clear that isn’t for sale this season and he’s going to give Leeds United that fair chance to get back in the Premier League and if he does, then he’s got everything he needs right there."
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Leeds are next in action on Saturday when they take on QPR at Elland Road, as they look to pick up three points to fire themselves back into the automatic promotion places.
The Verdict:
I can't see any truth in this latest rumour.
Manchester United need players that have proven experience in the Premier League to turn their poor start to this year's campaign around, and Phillips doesn't match that description.
Phillips has recently signed a new contract with Leeds as well, so it would take a hefty offer from the Red Devils if they were to even convince the Whites to accept a bid.
But even if they did, Phillips doesn't strike me as the sort of player that would move to Leeds' most bitter of rivals.