Kalvin Phillips Could Hold the Key to Man City’s Pursuit of Declan Rice
Man City is set to rival Arsenal in their pursuit of West Ham star Declan Rice. The Premier League champions are expected to table a bid for the West Ham skipper on Thursday. This news will come as a blow to Arsenal, who had a club-record offer worth up to £90 million turned down this week. Arsenal had pinpointed Rice as their main target this summer, but the impending exit of City captain Ilkay Gundogan has put the European champions on red alert.
Former Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan believes Guardiola could use Phillips as a makeweight in any deal, a move that would benefit both City and West Ham. Man City completed the signing of Phillips from Leeds on a six-year contract last summer for £45 million, though the Yorkshireman has struggled ever since.
The Makeweight Opportunity
Jordan believes that Guardiola could use Phillips as a makeweight in any deal. He stated, “There is a makeweight opportunity in this deal. What Kalvin Phillips says and what Pep Guardiola tells him might be two different things. If he says he wants to stay at Man City and Guardiola says, ‘that’s very commendable son, but you ain’t playing’, then his attitude will have to change.”
Jordan further added, “There are a variety of ways this deal can be done, and if there’s a situation where West Ham are prepared to let Declan Rice go in exchange for something in return… Suddenly you’re doing a £75 million deal with cash, plus you’re taking Kalvin Phillips, and you’re making it happen that way. That might not be the case, it might be unfair to put him [Phillips] in the equation. But West Ham are going to have a need, they’re going to have to replace this player and Phillips might be the makeweight.”
Rice’s Future
Rice has been the target of speculation over his future after failing to agree a new deal at the London Stadium. He has 12 months left on his current deal, and owner David Sullivan has confirmed he has likely already played his last game. West Ham is preparing for life without Rice, who looks set to leave this summer.
Man City is targeting another midfielder after Gundogan’s departure to Barcelona. The club sees Rice as a potential replacement for the German midfielder. Rice has been a key player for West Ham, and his performances have attracted interest from several top clubs.
Phillips’ Struggles
Phillips has struggled to find his form since joining Man City from Leeds last summer. The midfielder made 29 appearances for the club last season, but he failed to make a significant impact. Guardiola is reportedly looking to offload Phillips this summer, and West Ham could be a potential destination.
Phillips is a versatile midfielder who can play in several positions. He is known for his work rate, energy, and ability to break up play. West Ham could benefit from Phillips’ presence in midfield, especially if Rice leaves the club this summer.
Conclusion
Man City’s pursuit of Declan Rice could hinge on the future of Kalvin Phillips. The Yorkshireman could be used as a makeweight in any deal, which would benefit both City and West Ham. Phillips has struggled to find his form since joining Man City last summer, and Guardiola is reportedly looking to offload him this summer. West Ham could be a potential destination for Phillips, especially if Rice leaves the club this summer. The next few weeks will be crucial for all parties involved as they look to finalize their transfer plans for the upcoming season.