Recent reports from Italy suggest that Kalvin Phillips’ potential loan transfer to Serie A giant Juventus is approaching a finalization.
Having departed his boyhood club Leeds United for Manchester City in the summer of 2022, allegedly for around £42.5 million, the English midfielder has faced challenges settling into his new environment. However, his time with the club appears to be drawing to a close.
Despite interest from various Premier League teams last summer, Phillips was keen on staying at Etihad Stadium and vying for a place in Pep Guardiola’s successful squad.
Despite Manchester City dealing with ongoing injury woes this season, Phillips has only managed eight appearances for the team in the 2023–24 campaign.
As per reports from Calcio Mercato, cited by Sports Witness, discussions regarding a potential January loan move to Juventus have progressed significantly. Allegedly, Juventus aims to secure Phillips for the remainder of the current season, with plans to return him to Manchester City before the start of the 2024–25 season.
Juventus, while seeking cover for the suspended Nicolo Fagioli, doesn’t appear to be prioritizing talks regarding a permanent deal for Phillips at the end of his loan spell.
In his pursuit of solidifying a spot in Gareth Southgate’s lineup for the 2024 European Championship in Germany, Phillips has voiced his desire for more playing time before the summer.
Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, hinted in a recent press conference that Phillips might pursue a move soon, affirming that the Premier League champions wouldn’t impede his decision.
Guardiola stated, “If he decides to do it [leave], then do it.” He added, “He stays if the deal doesn’t follow. He’s behaving in an unusual manner. I don’t usually praise players who aren’t playing, but this lad is one of the most selfless players I’ve seen. It’s quite the opposite—some individuals might be having issues in the dressing room.”
