West Ham United: Kalvin Phillips loan-to-buy from Manchester City completion date news as medical imminent – Fabrizio Romano
West Ham are expected to complete the signing of Kalvin Phillips on a loan-to-buy deal from Manchester City on Thursday, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Italian journalist reported via Twitter on 24 January that the midfielder will be in London for his Irons medical later on Wednesday, with his contract expected to be signed and move completed a day later.
The 28-year-old was flying back from Abu Dhabi with the City squad on Tuesday after an agreement was struck between the two Premier League clubs over a January move.
Romano wrote: “Kalvin Phillips will be in London today to undergo medical tests as new West Ham player. He’s expected to sign the contract and complete the move on Thursday.
“West Ham and Man City have already started to exchange contract for loan deal with buy option clause.”
On the brink
Everything looks to be going as planned after the breakthrough on a deal with City, despite significant doubt being thrown upon the move on Sky Sports later on Tuesday.
This deal has emerged as a surprise priority for the Irons in the January transfer window, when attacking reinforcements were expected above all.
But David Moyes has been after the England international for two years now and it looks like he is finally about to get his man.
With a permanent option included there is every indication that the Hammers boss is looking for this to be a long-term signing, which would give West Ham a formidable midfield four.
Edson Alvarez has proven to be key in replacing Declan Rice, while James Ward-Prowse has contributed heavily with assists, and Moyes favourite Tomas Soucek has returned to something close to the form that he was in three seasons ago.
West Ham play Bournemouth on Thursday so it seems impossible that Phillips would be wrapped up in time to make his debut, but the Sunday (4 February) trip to Old Trafford to face Manchester United sounds viable.
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