Transfer expert Dean Jones has reported on Give Me Sport’s website that Newcastle United are emerging as the ‘top option’ for Manchester City star Kalvin Phillips – amid some reports that said Leeds wanted to bring him back.
Phillips, 27, joined Manchester City from Leeds as the Euro 2020 finalist finally left Leeds, after 214 outings. Pep Guardiola’s side spent £42million to lure Phillips to The Etihad – plus, £3million in add-ons. It has not gone to plan.
Indeed, the England star spent the first half of the season on the sidelines with an injury. His shoulder almost preventing him from travelling with the England squad to Qatar – but he made Gareth Southgate’s side just in time.
He has since been in and around the team at City, coming off the bench here and there. But on Saturday in City’s 4-1 win over Liverpool, John Stones was used ahead of him in midfield. He remained an unused substitute throughout.
The Daily Star recently reported that Leeds are interested in a move to bring Phillips back home. But, that West Ham are also keen and a move would cost £42m. But Jones says Newcastle are top of the list, if he does choose to go.
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Newcastle emerge as top option for Kalvin Phillips amid Leeds reports
It makes sense. Most mid-table Premier League clubs are likely to be interested in a move for Phillips. He is easily a player that has the quality to play for a City, but will prefer to be getting regular game time slightly lower down.
A return to Leeds will tempt him, but he will want a shot at European football. He is that calibre of player. Newcastle look good for Champions League football right now, and if not, will certainly get into the Europe League this term.
They also need a holding midfielder. Jonjo Shelvey has left and Bruno Guimaraes has been the anchor. But the Brazil star is much better further forward and that will explain Newcastle’s interest. The ideal move for Phillips.
