A recent report by Liverpool Echo indicates that a transfer possibility remains open for Kalvin Phillips, despite his current ties to Manchester City, a notable Premier League rival of Liverpool. This prospective move would align with Phillips’ aspirations, as he seeks regular playing opportunities in anticipation of the upcoming 2024 European Championships.
Phillips’ Disappointing First Season At Manchester City
During his debut season at the Etihad Stadium, Kalvin Phillips encountered challenges in securing a regular starting position in Pep Guardiola’s lineup, leading to limited appearances in the Premier League. Despite his well-established capabilities from his time at Leeds United, he only managed to participate in 21 games for Manchester City across various competitions.
Most of his involvements came as a substitute, contributing to his relatively modest averages of 0.5 tackles, 0.4 interceptions, and 0.7 clearances per Premier League match. However, he stood out for his precision in passing, boasting an impressive 92.6% success rate in completed passes in the English top-flight league (statistics via whoscored).Although Phillips’ current contract at the Etihad Stadium runs until the summer of 2028, potentially indicating Manchester City’s reluctance to part with him, Liverpool might face challenges in pursuing his transfer during the current off-season.
Should Liverpool Boss Jurgen Klopp Make Contact?
Kalvin Phillips stands out as a resilient and determined midfielder, showcasing impressive awareness in recovering possession for his team within the midfield area. His willingness to clear potential threats and his commendable passing abilities contribute to his profile. While he displays a sharp playmaking instinct, especially in initiating attacks from the opposing half, Phillips acknowledges the need to amplify his offensive contributions to exert a more significant influence on the team’s forward movement.
Despite his talents, Phillips has faced challenges during his Manchester City tenure, dealing with injuries and struggling to establish himself as a consistent starter. These circumstances raise questions about his current fit within City’s setup.However, it’s crucial to recognize Phillips’ substantial potential and skill level. His ability to win possession and distribute the ball, coupled with his capacity to drive it forward, positions him as a potentially valuable addition to the Anfield club.
Even though Liverpool recently acquired Wataru Endo, they are actively seeking midfield reinforcement, making Phillips’ profile an intriguing option for Jurgen Klopp. Yet, orchestrating a late transfer move within the current window could come at a considerable cost for the Merseyside club, potentially posing a challenge in the transfer process.
