Manchester City have completed their 'background checks' and there are 'positive' signs that they will succeed in luring Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips to the Etihad Stadium, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The reigning Premier League champions will be without Fernandinho next season, with the Brazilian's contract expiring in a matter of days, and Phillips has been identified as a suitable defensive midfield replacement.

GiveMeSport Transfer Update With Dean Jones

What's the latest news involving Phillips?

Manchester City appear to be in pole position to secure Phillips' services as it is understood that he has told key figures behind the scenes at Leeds that he wants to seal a switch to the Etihad Stadium.

According to The Athletic, there is an expectation that the 26-year-old will look to force through a move if a big-money bid is tabled by Pep Guardiola's side.

The report suggests Manchester City believe Leeds will be tempted into selling the 23-cap England international if they head to the negotiating table with a £50million proposal.

That is despite West Ham United failing with a bid worth the same amount just a matter of months ago during the January transfer window.

However, Leeds are in a strong negotiating position as the academy product's £38,000-per-week contract is not due to expire until the summer of 2024.

Raheem Sterling to Chelsea is ON! Hear more on The Football Terrace...

What has Dean Jones said about Phillips?

Jones understands Manchester City have made inroads in their bid to welcome Phillips to the club.

The transfer insider feels the chances of the England ace heading to the sky blue half of Manchester are rising.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT: "All the background checks on this deal are now done and talks are continuing.

"This sounds like a really promising time for Manchester City in their move to sign Kalvin Phillips. The signs are positive so far."

Would Phillips be a shrewd signing by Guardiola?

Phillips may have missed a large chunk of last season due to injury, but he played a key role in Leeds avoiding relegation by three points.

He went on to make 23 appearances across the entire campaign and has also established himself as an England regular, emphasised by the fact he only missed 25 minutes of Euro 2020.

Phillips has shown that he would add steel to Manchester City's midfield as he featured in the 99th, 97th and 96th respective percentiles for successful pressures, tackles and blocks among midfielders in Europe's big five divisions last term, so it could be argued that a deal would be a clever piece of business.