Newcastle United is actively pursuing Kalvin Phillips as their top priority in the upcoming January transfer window, following their elimination from the Champions League group stage.
The Magpies’ hopes of European success were dashed after a 2-1 home defeat to AC Milan, resulting in their exit from Europe under the management of Eddie Howe. With a bottom finish in Group F, their focus now shifts to securing a spot in the Premier League’s top four.
Throughout the season, Newcastle has grappled with numerous injury issues, compounded by the 10-month ban handed to defensive player Sandro Tonali for violating the Italian FA’s betting regulations. In light of these challenges, i News suggests that Phillips is seen as the ideal candidate to address their midfield needs.
Phillips, who recently scored his first goal for Manchester City in a 3-2 victory over Crvena zvezda, is reportedly set to depart in January.
Pep Guardiola, expressing regret, informed the former Leeds United player that he couldn’t envision him in the team and that his playing time would be further limited.
Despite earlier denials from Eddie Howe about an already agreed deal for Phillips, uncertainties linger around the potential transfer. Howe dismissed claims that a deal was imminent, stating, “That’s not correct.”
In a different scenario, Turkish news source A Haber reports that Galatasaray is considering a January loan move for Sergio Gomez. The 23-year-old, who has seen limited playing time at Etihad this season with only 255 minutes across all competitions, is eager for more substantial game time.
Galatasaray, having progressed to the next round of the Europa League, aims to strengthen in January and has expressed interest in borrowing Gomez until 2025.
As the transfer window approaches, Newcastle’s pursuit of Phillips and Galatasaray’s interest in Gomez add intriguing dynamics to the evolving landscape of player movements and team strategies. The uncertainties surrounding the negotiations and the potential impact of these transfers on both clubs’ ambitions heighten the anticipation for the January transfer window.