Manchester City are reportedly keen on loaning out midfielder Kalvin Phillips this summer, in an attempt to help the Englishman rediscover his form.
The 27-year-old has had a nightmare time at the Etihad Stadium since joining from Leeds last summer, with injuries preventing him from making a significant contribution to City’s treble win.
Phillips started just two Premier League games, with Rodri and Ilkay Gundogan ahead of him in the pecking order as a defensive midfielder, and City are now considering loaning him out to rediscover his fitness and best form according to Alan Nixon, who has claimed that Pep Guardiola is happy to lose him for a season, in order to bring him back in a year rejuvenated and ready to play a bigger role.
The England international was linked with a move to Newcastle United earlier in the window, before Eddie Howe recruited Sandro Tonali from AC Milan, but a dry loan may be appealing to the Magpies.
Phillips could be an excellent addition on loan
Although Newcastle have already signed Tonali, the opportunity to sign Phillips cheaply for a one-year loan may be too good to turn down.
The former Leeds United star has bags of domestic and international experience, and if he can regain his fitness, he could be a serious asset for Newcastle this season.
He could play alongside Tonali as a more defensive option, allowing the Italian and Bruno Guimaraes to push further forward, whilst bringing strong ability on the ball.
John Stones has described his passing ability as “outrageous,” and there is no doubt that when Phillips is at his best, he is a midfielder who could walk into most Premier League sides.
It remains to be seen whether City will be willing to loan Phillips out to a fellow Champions League side, but if a financially reasonable deal can be done, he may be an unexpected, but brilliant addition this summer.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
