Man City to make Kalvin Phillips decision as West Ham ready move for Declan Rice replacement
Manchester City are still deciding whether to cash in on reported West Ham target Kalvin Phillips this summer, according to 90min.com.
Phillips moved to the Etihad Stadium in a £45million deal from boyhood club Leeds United ahead of the 2022-23 campaign but has found first-team football difficult to come by.
The 27-year-old was a squad player in City’s treble-winning efforts but still managed to keep his place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
However, 90min.com reports Phillips has been warned by the Three Lions boss he can ill-afford another campaign sat on the sidelines ahead of Euro 2024.
City themselves are said to be unsure if Phillips is a long-term fit, with West Ham named as one of the clubs alongside Newcastle United waiting to make a move if he becomes available.
West Ham view Phillips as a potential replacement for Declan Rice, who looks certain to leave with Arsenal rumoured to be leading the race despite reports of a £90m bid from the Gunners having been rejected (Sky Sports).
Phillips a great Rice replacement
In an ideal world, West Ham fans would probably like to see Phillips play alongside Rice at the London Stadium.
It was a midfield combo that took England to the brink of Euro 2020 glory two years ago, only to be felled by Italy on penalties in the final at Wembley.
But, alas, we do not live in an ideal world and bar a miracle from the footballing Gods, West Ham fans will be bidding a very fond farewell to their skipper in the coming weeks.
Replacing Rice will be no easy feat but Phillips – despite his struggles at City – remains a top-class operator, one who has mainly been unfortunate that City star Rodri is probably the best in the world in the defensive midfield position right now.
West Ham cannot only offer first-team opportunities but can still offer European football in the form of the Europa League. Phillips would be foolhardy to turn down such an opportunity this close to Euro 2024 in Germany.
This one feels like it could have legs.