Phillips has been a man in demand since the turn of the year, with the likes of Aston Villa, Newcastle United and West Ham all keen on his services.
However, after he helped keep the Whites in the Premier League, it seems as if the only way he will leave Elland Road now is for a move to the Etihad.
City reportedly view Phillips as the perfect replacement for Fernandinho, and they have now taken the next step in their pursuit of the 26-year-old.
A Man City source shared an update to FI on Monday afternoon regarding Phillips. They claimed that the Premier League champions have now made an offer for the Leeds star, with Pep Guardiola a ‘huge’ fan.
Guardiola has made it clear to City chiefs how much he wants Phillips at the club, with an offer of around £50m potentially enough to seal a deal.
It now looks as if Leeds officials will need to respond to City’s opening offer, which could make for an interesting few weeks. If the Whites are to cash in, it may be wise to look to get a transfer finalised as quickly as possible.
That will then allow the club to bring in further midfield reinforcements before the club return for pre-season, with Marc Roca looking likely to become the third signing of the summer.
Phil Hay previously reported that Roca is viewed as competition for Phillips and not a direct replacement, which shows that Leeds would need to bring in at least one more midfielder if Phillips moves on.
