Dharmesh Sheth shares Kalvin Phillips update on Sky Sports amid West Ham United transfer links
Dharmesh Sheth says Kalvin Phillips is “very likely” to remain in the Premier League, with West Ham one of the teams interested in the Manchester City midfielder.
LaLiga pair Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are the latest clubs to have been credited with an interest in Phillips [The Telegraph, 17 January], while Serie A heavyweights Juventus have also been linked.
However, with no shortage of suitors in England – including from the likes of Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, West Ham and others – Sheth does not believe he will head abroad.
“The Premier League is looking increasingly likely where he will be playing his football come February 1,” Sheth said, as per Sky Sports’ live transfer blog [17 January, 6:43pm].
“Newcastle have been interested. I just wonder if they’ll make a push for him now with Joelinton potentially out for the rest; West Ham as well are interested.”
After Roy Hodgson admitted this week he would love Palace to move for Phillips, Sheth added: “What was interesting is the press conference Roy Hodgson gave yesterday.
“If you asked me now who are the favourites, because he’s been so open about it, you have to say Crystal Palace will be up there.”
Stock has fallen
The loss to Bristol City on Tuesday (16 January) has dampened the mood around London Stadium following a very strong end to 2023.
With no players yet to have been added to the squad, supporters could do with a signing being made this week to lift spirits once again.
Steven Bergwijn sounds like he may be on his way from Ajax, while Phillips is the other name that has been regularly linked this month.
The England international’s stock has fallen considerably since he swapped Leeds United for City, but he is a top-quality player.
As he showed during his time with Leeds in the Premier League, and indeed at tournaments with England, he is capable of bossing midfield.
The only question mark regards how much City want for Phillips in terms of a loan fee. A figure in excess of £6million has previously been mentioned, which is simply too high.
If that comes down, though, West Ham must ensure they are at the front of the queue to see off competition from their Premier League rivals.
In other West Ham news, the Irons have reportedly been told to pay in excess of £6m for another of their targets.
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