Liverpool target, Kalvin Phillips, appears poised to depart from Manchester City in January. Phillips has been associated with Liverpool even prior to his transfer from Leeds United to City in the summer of 2022.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Phillips has now recognized the necessity of seeking a new club to secure regular playing time. “Based on my discussions with sources, it seems highly probable that Kalvin Phillips will leave Manchester City during the January transfer window,” Romano stated in his Daily Briefing today.
Ongoing Challenges For Phillips At Manchester City
Kalvin Phillips has faced a period of adversity during his time at Manchester City, struggling to establish himself as a regular starter in Pep Guardiola’s lineup. The English midfielder has made appearances in just five matches for his current club this season, spanning across all competitions.
The 27-year-old has primarily found himself on the substitutes’ bench, which may account for his relatively modest statistical contributions in the Premier League, where he averages 0.7 tackles, 0.3 interceptions, and 0.7 successful dribbles per game. It’s worth noting that his proficiency in distributing the ball from the midfield remains strong, boasting a pass completion rate of 90% in the English top flight (statistics sourced from whoscored).
Despite being under contract until the summer of 2028, City’s management are also contemplating the possibility of transferring the player, which could potentially lead to a more reasonable transfer fee, favouring the Merseyside club.
Should Klopp Bring Him To Liverpool In January?
Kalvin Phillips, a tenacious and robust midfielder, boasts exceptional awareness when it comes to regaining possession for his team in the midfield. He exhibits a readiness to clear danger when required and displays commendable passing skills. While he demonstrates vision in orchestrating plays for his teammates in the opponent’s half, Phillips acknowledges the necessity of improving his offensive contributions to make a more significant impact up front.
Nevertheless, Phillips has encountered hurdles during his time at Manchester City, dealing with injuries and finding it challenging to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup. This prompts questions regarding his suitability for the City squad at the moment.
Nonetheless, Phillips remains an immensely talented player with substantial potential. His ability to win the ball, distribute it effectively, and carry it forward could render him a valuable asset for the Reds, as Jurgen Klopp is actively seeking to strengthen the midfield at Anfield.
