MANCHESTER CITY have reportedly stepped up their pursuit for Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips.

Pep Guardiola’s Premier League champions officially announced the arrival of striker Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund this week.

Now The Times says that they have turned their attentions to securing the services of the the midfielder and want it completed before they head to America on pre-season tour next month.

The 26-year-old is currently on international duty but will be heading off on his summer holidays after tonight’s Nations League clash with Hungary.

As Sun Sport reported last week, City will officially approach Leeds once Phillips has finished his England duty.

However, this fresh report backs up that as they prepare to make contact with Elland Road chiefs.

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Boss Guardiola is looking for a replacement for veteran Fernandinho following the Brazilian’s departure after nine years at the Etihad.

Guardiola and City sporting director Txiki Begiristain think he would be “ideal” for them and have already sent scouts to watch him several times this term.

Manchester United also want the ace – but Phillips has allegedly told his nearest and dearest that he could not move to Old Trafford due to the bitter rivalry between them and his boyhood club Leeds.

West Ham also had a club record £50m bid for Leeds United’s Phillips rejected in the January window and they were set to try again this summer.

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Aston Villa are another team keen on Phillips.

Steven Gerrard had his own bid for the Yorkshire Pirlo knocked back during the winter window.

But it seems that City are stealing a march on all of their rivals as they look to secure their second summer signing quickly.

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