In a recent tweet, journalist Luke Edwards offered an update on Newcastle United and their pursuit of Manchester City outcast Kalvin Phillips. It is understood that the Magpies have still got a lot of work to do if they want to get a deal done for the English midfield ace this January.
Asked today whether Kalvin Phillips loan deal was all but done for January Eddie Howe replied: “That isn’t true.” Newcastle like Phillips, we’ve been reporting that for weeks, there is hope a deal can be done, but there is a lot of competition and more work to do #nufc
— Luke Edwards (@LukeEdwardsTele) December 12, 2023
Phillips’ Frustrations At Manchester This Season
Phillips has found regular first-team chances hard to come by at the Etihad Stadium this season. He has fallen behind Rodri, John Stones, Manuel Akanji and Bernardo Silva in Man City’s pecking order.
The 28-year-old has made just eight appearances for the Mancunian club during this campaign but has failed to register a goal or an assist for them across multiple competitions. Phillips has seen all of his game time come as a substitute which explains why he is only averaging 0.8 tackles, 0.5 interceptions, 0.5 clearances and 0.5 shots per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He has been accurate when distributing possession from midfield after making 89.7% of his attempted passes in the English top tier (stats via whoscored).
His current deal at Man City will expire in 2028 which would make it tough for Newcastle to sign him on the cheap in 2024.
Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Step Up His Chase To Land Phillips?
Phillips can get stuck in with a few crunching tackles to make life difficult for the opposition at the centre of the park. He can make some timely interceptions for his team and usually clears his lines when the opposition are on the offensive. The English talent has got a good passing range and can shoot the ball with power from long range. He can even make some energetic runs with the ball from midfield.
Phillips has what it takes to earn a regular starting spot in Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe’s first XI in the future. Thus, the Magpies would be wise to step up their chase to acquire the services of the English midfielder next year.
At 28, Phillips has entered his prime and could benefit from playing regularly at the Tyneside club. Furthermore, he might help Newcastle challenge across all fronts in the coming years.
