Everton target 'on the brink' of joining Premier League rivals in 'statement signing'
Ipswich Town are reportedly set to sign Man City midfielder Kalvin Phillips.
Everton transfer target Kalvin Phillips has reportedly agreed to join a Premier League rival.
The midfielder has been on the Toffees’ radar as Sean Dyche aims to bolster his options after the sale of Amadou Onana to Aston Villa for £50 million earlier in the window.
Phillips endured two difficult years since he joined Manchester City from Leeds United for £42 million. He’s been a bit-part player at the Etihad Stadium and had a disastrous loan spell at West Ham during the second half of last season.
But Dyche is a long-time admirer of Phillips and tried to sign him when he was manager of Burnley. Phillips displayed his qualities when helping Leeds back to the Premier League in the 2019-20 campaign and then consolidated in the top flight before his exit. He was also a key player when England reached the final of Euro 2020.
Phillips is surplus to requirements at City despite featuring as a centre-back in two pre-season friendlies. He was left on the bench for their Community Shield victory over Manchester United last weekend.
However, despite Everton’s interest, The Telegraph reports that the 28-year-old is closing in on a move to newly-promoted Ipswich Town. Reporter Mike McGrath posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Ipswich Town on the brink of agreeing a season-long loan for Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips. Statement signing for newly promoted club.”