Premier League club are now insisting that Newcastle agree to buy their ‘phenomenal’ player this summer

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Manchester City are insisting on a clause that could completely derail Newcastle United’s interest in Kalvin Phillips.

The 28-year-old looks destined to change clubs during the January transfer window, with Man City manager Pep Guardiola even apologising to him for not being able to find a place for him in his team.

Kalvin Phillips desperately needs a move away from the Etihad Stadium ahead of Euro 2024, and Newcastle United appear to be one of the frontrunners to secure his signature.

The Magpies are keen to secure a loan deal for the midfielder, while it has been claimed that he is very interested in a move to St James’ Park.

However, this transfer is not going to be straightforward, which always seems to be the case with Newcastle – largely because of the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.

Not only are Manchester City looking for a large fee just to loan the midfielder, they are also adamant about another clause being included in any deal.

Man City insist on Newcastle buying Kalvin Phillips at the end of the season

According to the Northern Echo, Man City are insistent on any loan deal including a clause that would effectively force Newcastle to buy Phillips permanently in the summer.

That would be a large financial commitment for the Magpies, with Man City looking for a fee in the region of £40million to sell Phillips – which is close to what they bought him for in 2022.

That is a commitment that Newcastle are probably unwilling to make, which would suggest that they just view Phillips as a temporary addition. The need for a player like Phillips has intensified due to Sandro Tonali’s ban, but he will be available to play again early next season.

Therefore, there is no guarantee that Phillips would still have a role next season. Nor is there any guarantee that he would be a success in black and white, so making a financial commitment like that when money is already tight would be a huge risk.

He may very well fit in at Newcastle. Eddie Howe’s side play a physically demanding brand of football, and Phillips’ intensity on the pitch was previously described as ‘phenomenal’ by Kieran Trippier.

But unless Man City change their stance, it is difficult to envision Phillips heading to the North East at this moment in time.

That is a shame, as he would be a decent signing for the rest of the season. However, it is too early to determine whether or not he should be a long-term addition, so it might be wise for the Magpies to steer clear completely.