Aston Villa lead race for Man City outcast with Everton hot on their heels

Aston Villa have submitted a loan offer for Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips according to Football Insider. The 28-year-old, who joined City from Leeds United in 2022 for a hefty £45 million, has struggled to cement his place in Pep Guardiola's starting lineup, managing just 31 appearances and only 14 starts over two seasons.

Phillips' limited playing time at City, coupled with an underwhelming loan spell at West Ham last season, has prompted him to seek opportunities elsewhere. Aston Villa's manager, Unai Emery, views Phillips as a strategic addition to strengthen his midfield, particularly with the team gearing up for the Champions League.

Everton, having recently lost Amadou Onana to Villa for £50 million, are also in the race to secure Phillips' services. The Toffees have engaged in discussions with both the player's representatives and Manchester City, indicating their preference for a loan deal with an option to purchase. On the other hand, City favours a permanent transfer or a loan with an obligation to buy.

Manchester City are open to letting Phillips go permanently for around £20 million, a significant reduction from his initial transfer fee. However, if a permanent deal doesn't materialise, they might consider a loan offer. One sticking point in the negotiations is Phillips' substantial weekly wage of £150,000, which none of his potential suitors are willing to match, possibly necessitating a pay cut for the player.

Aston Villa's loan proposal aligns with their prudent financial strategy. The club is also keeping an eye on other potential signings, such as Sergi Roberto, who is available on a free transfer.

Phillips' lacklustre performances during his loan stint at West Ham led to his exclusion from Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad, despite his previous key role for England. Both Manchester City and Phillips believe that a permanent move would be the best solution, but given the current circumstances, another loan seems the most likely outcome.

Fulham had considered Phillips as a potential replacement for Joao Palhinha, but it remains uncertain if the midfielder would be interested in a return to London. The allure of playing in the Champions League with Villa could be appealing, yet a move to Everton might offer more consistent playing time.

The competition for Kalvin Phillips' signature is heating up. Aston Villa's loan offer has positioned them as frontrunners, but Everton might counter with their own proposal.

With Villa's ambition to fortify their squad for the Champions League and Everton's need to replace Onana, the battle for Phillips' services promises to be a captivating storyline in the transfer market.