Newcastle United have needed to sign a centre-midfielder all month, but it looks like they are going to let Kalvin Phillips pass them by.
The 28-year-old has been a long-term target for Eddie Howe’s side, and there was even confidence that he would leave Manchester City and join Newcastle United on loan late last year.
It looked like it would be an easy deal for the Magpies to do, but that could not have been further from the truth.
Man City’s financial demands were eventually enough to put Newcastle off, despite Phillips being keen on the move to Tyneside and the chance to play for Eddie Howe.
A move is now on the horizon for the midfielder, but it is the south that beckons for Phillips, while it looks like his manager will be David Moyes.
West Ham set to sign Kalvin Phillips ahead of Newcastle
West Ham United emerged as the frontrunners to sign Kalvin Phillips over the weekend, and it now looks like a deal is close to being finalised.
According to London World, Phillips has given West Ham his word that he will join them on loan for the rest of the season, with the Hammers agreeing a deal with Manchester City.
The report adds that a medical is booked for later this week, with Moyes’ side set to pay around £5million for the privilege of loaning a player who looked destined to be heading to St James’ Park.
But Newcastle cooling their interest has left the door wide open for West Ham, who have swooped in to rescue a man who desperately needs a move away from the Etihad Stadium.
That is exactly what he is getting, while Newcastle remain desperate for a midfielder. Amadou Onana has been linked with joining the Magpies, but that will be difficult.
In fact, any deal will be difficult for Newcastle, who seemingly have barely any money to spend due to the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.
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