In a recent report, Mundo Deportivo claimed that Barcelona are showing interest in Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips. It has been mentioned that the Catalan club are eyeing a move to bring the English talent to the Nou Camp in this January transfer window.
Phillips’ Lack Of Playing Time At Man City This Season
Phillips has struggled to earn a regular starting spot at the Etihad Stadium this season as he has often found himself behind Rodri, John Stones and Manuel Akanji in Man City’s pecking order. The English midfield ace has featured in ten matches for the Mancunian club during this campaign, scoring one goal across all fronts.
The 28-year-old has made all of his appearances off the bench which could be why he is only averaging 0.8 tackles, 0.5 interceptions and 0.5 dribbles per game in Premier League football. He has been tidy when distributing possession from midfield after completing 89.7% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Mancunian club will expire in the summer of 2028. Thus, Barcelona could struggle to sign him on a cut-price deal this winter or at the end of this season.
What Will Phillips Bring To Barcelona?
Phillips is a tough-tackling midfielder who can time his challenges well to earn the ball back for his team inside his half when he is playing well on the pitch. He doesn’t hesitate to clear his lines when required and is an accurate distributor of the ball from midfield. However, the English talent has to figure out a way to earn more playing time if he wants to make the most out of the remainder of his playing career.
At 28, Phillips is currently in his prime and has got the skillset to make an immediate impact at Barcelona if Xavi can devise a way to get him on board in this January transfer window. He would bring more bite and steel to Barca‘s midfield department.
Phillips might even help the Catalan club challenge for some major honours over the next few years. Thus, it makes sense for Xavi to try and arrange a loan move for him this winter as Barcelona simply won’t have the funds to seal a permanent transfer right now.
