Leeds United news: Phillips reacts to Sibley transfer reveal

Kevin Phillips has tipped Leeds United target Louie Sibley to earn a move to “a big, big club” next summer if he remains at Derby County this season.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs, the 2000 European Golden Shoe winner, who worked with Sibley, 19, while a coach at Derby believes it would take “silly money” to persuade the Rams from parting with the midfielder before tomorrow’s deadline.

Football Insider revealed on Tuesday that the Midlands club want £10million for the teenager amid late-window interest from Marcelo Bielsa’s side.

Leeds recruitment chief Victor Orta confirmed the Premier League club’s interest in the centre-midfielder in an interview with the Yorkshire Evening Post.

Sibley has made a big impression at Pride Park over the past year, contributing five goals and two assists in his 14 Championship appearances to date.

When asked by Football Insider for his thoughts on the future of the England Under-20 international, Phillips said: “I know Louie well.

“He played with my lad so I have watched loads of him. I am not surprised that he has developed into a top footballer.

“My advice would be for Louie Sibley to play and develop. If he has another good season in the Championship he would certainly get a move to a big, big club at the end of the season.

“I think it would take silly money. If Derby are serious about challenging from promotion then you cannot be losing Sibley.

In other Leeds United news, Alex McLeish claims Manchester City were ‘scared’ of Leeds attacker.