Newcastle United reportedly preparing to make move for Man City’s Kalvin Phillips
Kalvin Phillips only moved from Leeds United to Manchester City last year in a deal worth upwards of £42million but the England star has endured a torrid time at the Etihad. Though he was part of the squad that won the treble last season, he would play just 21 times across all competitions, and since his move he has started just two Premier League games, the last of which was in May.
With his reputation floundering and a place in the Three Lions squad for Euro 2024 at stake, Phillips may be inclined to seek pastures new if his game time and form do not improve. Now, according to The Northern Echo via the Daily Mail, Newcastle have identified Phillips as a January transfer target, with Eddie Howe keen on improving his defensive midfield options.
Newcastle’s Investment in Defensive Midfielders
The Magpies have invested heavily in that position already, signing Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali for a combined £90m, but both have actually played better in a more advanced role. Furthermore, the club are sweating over the availability of Tonali with the Italian one of several players being investigated for alleged betting breaches.
Will Manchester City Sanction Phillips’ Departure?
It remains to be seen whether City would sanction Phillips’ departure, not least to a club that can be considered a potential Premier League title rival. After eight games, Newcastle are eighth in the table, five points off the Citizens and seven points off leaders Tottenham, with a home clash against Crystal Palace up next. City meanwhile host Brighton on Saturday, but before that Phillips is expected to start England’s huge clash against Italy on Tuesday night, where victory for the Three Lions will book their spot at next summers Euros.
Conclusion
Kalvin Phillips’ future is uncertain at Manchester City and Newcastle United are reportedly preparing to make a move for him should he decide to leave in January. With his reputation floundering and a place in the Three Lions squad for Euro 2024 at stake, Phillips may be inclined to seek pastures new if his game time and form do not improve. It remains to be seen whether City would sanction Phillips’ departure, not least to a club that can be considered a potential Premier League title rival.