Journalist tells Jim White about fresh West Ham United issue emerging in Kalvin Phillips transfer
West Ham are unsure whether or not they want to commit to giving Kalvin Phillips the same wages he’s on at Manchester City if he completes a permanent transfer in the summer, according to Alex Crook.
Speaking to host Jim White on talkSPORT on Thursday (25 January, 10:56am), the journalist said there is “conflicting reports” on whether or not an option-to-buy clause is being included in the England international’s deal, but that there should be some clarity provided on that once the loan move is confirmed.
He added that it would be a “big burden” for the Hammers to hand the 28-year-old midfielder similar terms to what he’s on with the Premier League champions as he would become the top earner at the London Stadium.
“What’s the latest with West Ham and Kalvin Phillips, are they getting him this morning?” asked White.
“Yeah, that medical should be completed today ahead of a loan move from Manchester City,” said Crook. “We’re still a little bit in doubt as to whether there is an option to buy in the deal. Conflicting reports on that one. I’m told we should get clarity once that move is officially confirmed.
“I think one of the issues, not so much the valuation, I think City are looking for around £40million. But it’s whether or not West Ham want to commit to Manchester City wages beyond the end of this season because they’re paying 100 per cent of his salary.
“He would be the top earner, it’s a big burden on the wage bill if they make that a permanent deal.”
Always something
The West Ham fans will know by now that a transfer involving the club can never be straightforward without some doubts being expressed at certain points.
It doesn’t sound as though the issues over the permanent clauses will have any impact on the deal going through, but it would be good to get that part of the transfer ironed out over the next couple of days.
The last thing the Hammers will want is for Phillips to do well at the London Stadium and then not have an option in place to sign him, similar to what happened with Jesse Lingard after his loan spell in East London.
There is a feeling that the Englishman’s time at Man City is almost certainly coming to an end either way, though, so we will hopefully be able to strike a deal that suits everyone.
The midfielder will be hoping it all gets sorted within the next couple of days to give him a chance to get embedded with the rest of the squad ahead of his potential debut against Bournemouth on 1 February.
In other West Ham news, a medical update has emerged on a potential new signing at the London Stadium.
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