In a recent edition of the Here We Go podcast, respected journalist Fabrizio Romano stated that Newcastle United want to recruit Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips next year. It is believed that the Magpies are eyeing a move to sign the English talent in the upcoming January transfer period.
Phillips’ Sporadic Role In Manchester This Season
Phillips has only managed to serve as a reliable presence in Pep Guardiola’s match-day squad this season. However, he is yet to make himself a regular starter at the Etihad Stadium.
The 27-year-old has only participated in eight matches for the Mancunian outfit during this campaign but has failed to score or assist a goal for them across multiple competitions. Phillips has made all of his appearances as a substitute which is why he is averaging 0.8 tackles, 0.5 interceptions and 0.5 clearances per game in the Premier League (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Etihad will run out in the summer of 2028. Hence, Newcastle could struggle to sign him permanently this January, so Howe would be better off arranging a loan move for him next year.
Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Get Phillips On Board?
Phillips is a tough-tackling midfielder who can read the danger well to secure the ball back for his team in the middle of the park. He usually clears the danger when needed and can even strike the ball with power from long range.
However, the English midfield ace has to find a way to improve his productivity in the final third. He is primarily a defensive midfielder but can also fill in as a centre-back or as a box-to-box midfielder if told to do so.
We can expect Phillips to bring more bite and steel to Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe’s midfield department. His addition might even help the Magpies cope with fixture congestion better.
All in all, the Tyneside club should think about getting Phillips on board either on loan or permanently when the transfer window reopens at the start of January. Howe is currently going through an injury crisis at Newcastle and could use someone of Phillips’ skillset to boost his team’s chances of having a successful campaign in English football.
