KALVIN PHILLIPS is “very favourable” towards a Barcelona loan but West Ham stands in the La Liga giant’s way for the midfielder.
The Manchester City outcast has hinted that Barca are the frontrunners of the many clubs interested in signing him.
Phillips is looking for a way out of the Etihad Stadium after a lack of game time since his move from Leeds United in 2022.
While Barca battle for the 28-year-old’s signature the Blaugrana’s financial woe – which has been long known – could stand in the way of the transfer.
Phillips is said to be aware of the club’s economic crisis and has delayed his decision on what club to move to as he “sees Barcelona option very favourably”, according to Spanish outlet Sport.
The move can only be finalised if the Catalonian giants can secure the player on a free loan having only to pay for the transfer fees.
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However, Moyes’ Hammers are ready to splurge the cash in January which could turn Phillips’ head away from La Liga.
West Ham’s hefty offer for the defensive midfielder can expect to convince Man City to send the Englishman to East London.
Crystal Palace, Newcastle, Juventus and Atletico Madrid are also reportedly interested in rivalling Xavi’s side.
The only way for the midfielder to make a move to Camp Nou is for the club to complete the sale of 49 per cent of Barcelona Studios for £171million – £42million of which would be redirected to sign a new player.
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A move to the Spanish side would guarantee Phillips Champions League football and also a run for the La Liga title.
Fans will now wait for the Man City forgotten man as he is likely to hold out on his decision on a move until the last few days of the January transfer window.
The England international will need to leave Pep Guardiola’s side if he wants to rake up his game time in the second half of the term.
Phillips will be fighting alongside the rest of the Three Lions squad for a spot on Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad this summer.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
