Premier League clubs set for last-minute transfer battle for Manchester City midfielder | OneFootball

Manchester City face a late push from Premier League clubs to sign out-of-favour midfielder Kalvin Phillips this month, according to new reports.

The England international has continued to find opportunities at the Etihad Stadium difficult to come by, with Pep Guardiola consistently favouring alternative profiles in the holding midfield role and seemingly shutting the player out of his immediate plans.

Despite remaining part of the senior squad, Kalvin Phillips has been restricted to sporadic involvement on the training ground – largely sparked by fitness issues – and has struggled to re-establish himself following loan spells away from the club.

Manchester City’s midfield structure has evolved significantly since Phillips’ arrival from Leeds United, and having struggled to adjust to tactical demands in Guardiola’s process, injuries have further disrupted rhythm for the player, leaving his future under continued scrutiny.

With the January transfer window entering its final stages, Manchester City are still listening to proposals for the player, and while the club are not under pressure to offload Phillips urgently, a short-term solution could appeal to all parties – particularly for the midfielder.

According to the information of Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, Kalvin Phillips is a late transfer target for both Wolverhampton Wanderers and Burnley in the closing stages of the January transfer window.

Any potential deal is still likely to hinge on financial considerations, including Phillips’ high wages and the structure of a possible loan. City may be required to subsidise a portion of his salary, while assurances over playing time could also be a decisive factor for the player.

As deadline day approaches, a late decision could see transfer negotiations accelerate rapidly, particularly if either Wolves or Burnley formalise their interest with a concrete proposal in the upcoming hours.

Should a move fail to materialise before the window closes, Kalvin Phillips will be forced to remain patient and continue working his way back to full fitness, and will next be able to reassess his options following the conclusion of the season.