Newcastle United reportedly preparing move for Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips

Newcastle United are reportedly preparing to make a move for Kalvin Phillips should he decide to leave Manchester City in January. Phillips only moved from Leeds United to City last year in a deal worth upwards of £42million but the England star has endured a torrid time at the Etihad.

Phillips Struggling for Game Time at Man City

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. Though a lengthy shoulder injury and the sensational form of Rodri has played a big part in this, the defensive midfielder does not appear to be trusted by Pep Guardiola. He has made just one start so far this season – in the Carabao Cup defeat at Newcastle – and was not even called into action in the last game against Arsenal despite Rodri being suspended.

Phillips Could Seek Pastures New

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. Liverpool were shockingly linked with the 27-year-old toward the end of the summer, while Arsenal were recently, tentatively rumoured to have an interest in the player who was among the best in his position just a couple of years ago.

Newcastle Eyeing January Move

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 Have Already Invested Heavily in Midfield

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