West Ham United could sign Kalvin Phillips in last-gasp deal on transfer deadline day
West Ham may have to wait until deadline day if they are to sign Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City, according to Alex Crook.
The talkSPORT reporter shared the update live on air on Friday [19 January, 8:46am] as the speculation regarding Phillips’ future grows.
Newcastle United and Crystal Palace are also interested, as are LaLiga pair Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
“There’s definitely interest from West Ham United. David Moyes is really keen to get Kalvin Phillips in,” Crook said.
“They’ve still got a lot to play for in the second half of the season despite being out of both domestic cup competitions.
“Newcastle’s interest hasn’t gone away, but it’s difficult for them financially.
“City want a decent loan fee and an obligation to buy at the end of the season, as well as his wages covered.
“I expect Kalvin Phillips to move, but it wouldn’t surprise me if we’re sat here on deadline day debating his destination – it’ll go right to the wire.”
Worth waiting for?
Phillips would be a great acquisition for West Ham if the right offer can be struck with City – if being the key word there.
Should a fee of around, say, £35million be agreed when factoring in the loan costs and the permanent deal, that would be a good piece of business.
Some may feel that is overpaying, but Phillips was signed for £45m just 18 months ago and he only recently turned 28.
West Ham are not in desperate need of central midfielders, so if this deal falls through then so be it.
It also means they do not have to rush through a transfer and can instead wait until deadline day, at which point City’s hand may be forced.
For all the talk of the champions taking a strong stance, they will be just as desperate to get Phillips off their books come February 1.
It looks as though this will be a story that continues developing for another couple of weeks yet.
In other West Ham news, Sky Sports have shared what may prove a “stumbling block” in the Irons’ hopes of bringing in a top target.
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