Wolves and Burnley Could Provide Deadline Day Lifeline to Kalvin Phillips
Wolverhampton Wanderers and Burnley are reportedly considering a late move for Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips, who has become an outcast at the Etihad Stadium. The Premier League clubs could offer the England international a crucial lifeline as the transfer deadline approaches, with City believed to be willing to sanction a cut-price exit.
Phillips' Struggles at Manchester City
Kalvin Phillips joined Manchester City in 2022 for a fee of approximately £45 million, but his time at the club has been marked by limited opportunities and frustration. The 30-year-old has made just 32 appearances for City across all competitions, with his only appearance this season coming in the Carabao Cup. His last Premier League minutes were actually spent on loan at Ipswich Town last term, highlighting his diminished role under Pep Guardiola.
The midfielder's substantial wages, reported to be between £150,000 and £165,000 per week, have proven to be a significant barrier to any potential transfer. This financial burden means Manchester City may need to subsidise part of his salary to facilitate a move, making a deal more complex as the deadline looms.
Wolves' Deadline Day Ambitions
Wolverhampton Wanderers are expected to be active on Deadline Day as manager Rob Edwards seeks to strengthen his squad for their relegation battle. The club faces multiple unresolved issues, including the future of striker Jorgen Strand Larsen, who has attracted interest from Crystal Palace.
Wolves are reportedly interested in Phillips as a potential replacement for Joao Gomes, who could depart if the club faces relegation. Napoli and Manchester United have shown interest in Gomes, making midfield reinforcements a priority. Wolves are believed to favour a loan deal with an option to buy, providing flexibility in their approach.
Burnley's Immediate Starting Role Offer
Burnley emerges as another potential destination for Phillips, with reports suggesting they are the only club prepared to offer him an immediate starting role. This could be particularly appealing to Phillips as he seeks regular first-team football to revive his career and maintain his international prospects.
Both Wolves and Burnley are battling relegation, making midfield reinforcements crucial for their survival hopes. The opportunity to secure an experienced Premier League midfielder like Phillips could provide a significant boost to either side's campaign.
Transfer Fee and Competition
Manchester City are reportedly willing to accept a fee as low as £10 million for Phillips, with the possibility of this decreasing further as the deadline approaches. This represents a substantial reduction from his original transfer cost, reflecting his diminished status at the club.
Everton and Phillips' former club Leeds United are also monitoring the situation closely and could make late moves if City's stance softens. This creates a competitive environment for Phillips' signature, though his wage demands remain a complicating factor for all interested parties.
The coming hours will be crucial in determining whether Phillips can secure a move away from Manchester City and which Premier League club might offer him the fresh start he desperately needs.
