Newcastle United is intensifying its pursuit of Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips in the upcoming January transfer window, according to sources confirmed to 90min.
The Magpies are actively seeking midfield reinforcements, prompted by the season-ending ban handed to their marquee summer signing, Sandro Tonali, due to betting offenses. Newcastle’s interest in Phillips predates their awareness of Tonali’s suspension, and intermediaries have relayed information that Manchester City is open to allowing him to depart in January.
Due to Financial Fair Play concerns, Newcastle is inclined toward securing Phillips on an initial loan. Manchester City is reportedly willing to approve such an arrangement but insists on including a purchase option.
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While various clubs from both England and Europe, including Aston Villa, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Borussia Dortmund, and Juventus, have recently inquired about Phillips, it is believed that Newcastle holds particular appeal for the 27-year-old.
Despite Phillips’ desire to establish himself at Manchester City and earn a spot in Pep Guardiola’s plans, it is becoming evident that he may not feature in the manager’s long-term vision. Although he has overcome injury challenges from his first season at the Etihad Stadium, Phillips has played a mere 215 minutes for Manchester City this season, starting just one game — a 1-0 loss to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup’s third round.
Despite limited club-level game time, Phillips has maintained his place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad throughout all three international windows this season.
Meanwhile, Newcastle is engaged in discussions with Feyenoord regarding the possibility of terminating Yankuba Minteh’s loan spell in January. The winger, who recently returned to Tyneside for treatment on a hamstring injury, has impressed his parent club with his performances in the Netherlands.