Manchester City are currently in discussions with West Ham over a potential loan deal for Kalvin Phillips, according to a source from ESPN. This comes as no surprise, as West Ham is one of several clubs that have expressed interest in Phillips during the January transfer window. The talks revolve around a temporary move for Phillips until the end of the season.
City is reportedly looking to secure a loan fee amounting to £7 million ($8.9 million) from West Ham. In addition to the fee, City wants to include an obligation for West Ham to make the deal permanent in the summer, although there may be room for negotiation to reduce this to an option. The 28-year-old midfielder is eager to leave the Etihad this month in search of regular first-team football. He hopes this move will help secure his place in the England squad for the upcoming European Championships in Germany during the summer.
Phillips’ playing time at Manchester City has been sparse. He has only started two games this season, the most recent being a meaningless Champions League group match against Red Star Belgrade on December 13. City is willing to let Phillips leave, but they want any offer to reflect his status as an established England international, despite his lack of appearances under Pep Guardiola. Since his £43 million move from Leeds United in 2022, Phillips has started only two Premier League games, both of which occurred after City had already secured the title last season.
West Ham manager David Moyes has maintained a long-standing interest in Phillips. The interest began when Moyes attempted to bring the midfielder to the London Stadium from Leeds in January 2022. Moyes was even open to the possibility of using Phillips in a part-exchange deal when City showed interest in signing Declan Rice during the summer transfer window. Ultimately, Rice moved to Arsenal, and Phillips remained with City.
Aside from West Ham, other clubs such as Newcastle United and Crystal Palace have also shown interest in acquiring Phillips. However, Newcastle has been hesitant to make an official approach due to City’s demands.
Manchester City’s discussions with West Ham regarding a loan deal for Kalvin Phillips highlight the midfielder’s desire for more playing time and his aspiration to secure a place in the England squad for the European Championships. City’s willingness to let Phillips leave shows their recognition of his potential and international standing. While West Ham is in negotiations with City, other clubs like Newcastle United and Crystal Palace have also expressed interest in Phillips. It remains to be seen where Phillips will end up, but his future in the Premier League appears bright, given his proven abilities as an established England international.