Man City replace Fernandinho with Kalvin Phillips of Leeds United

Kalvin Phillips

Manchester City means business this summer. Hot off the heels of signing Erling Haaland for a £51M transfer fee, the Cityzens have made a deal with Leeds United to pen England international Kalvin Phillips for £42M plus add-ons.

Man City midfielder Darko Gyabi will go separately for £5m as part of the arrangement.

Phillips, a young developing midfielder, is bound to flourish under Pep Guardiola, with whom the 26-year-old turned down other clubs to work. “I was mesmerized by Pep Guardiola giving me a handshake,” said Phillips back in 2020.

Phillips is expected to replace Fernandinho, who left the Etihad after nine seasons.

Phillips, a good backup option?

City, who have already won the Premier League under Guardiola four times, can now say they have a complete midfield with Phillips as Rodri's defensive midfield understudy. But will Phillips ever start?

Spanish international Rodri is one of the best DMs in the Premier League. Perhaps Guardiola sees this as an opportunity to give Rodri some fresh legs for the biggest games.

Phillips will hope that he doesn't harm his Qatar World Cup chances by leaving his hometown club, Leeds, where he had two years left on his contract.

Phillips remains a starter in England's midfield after having an impressive stint at the Euros last year. Perhaps Guardiola, whose brilliance is often criticized for over-thinking, has a unique role in mind for Phillips. After all, the player comes from Bielsa's possession-based team.

Photo: Twitter/@topfootballshow

Related posts

Is New Balance poised to overtake Nike in Barcelona kit deal?

Robert Baum

Will Mohamed Salah make a stunning move to Saudi Arabia this summer?

Robert Baum

The top 10 center backs in the world 2023/24

Robert Baum

Messi’s 2022 World Cup jerseys aim for auction history

Robert Baum

Down but not out: How Man United can qualify for the UCL Knockouts

Robert Baum

Galatasaray vs Man United UCL clash to be postponed?

Robert Baum

Premier League set to trial Sin Bins, but why?

Robert Baum

Take a sneak peek at Brazil’s 2024 Copa America kit

Robert Baum

Under pressure: Xavi’s dismal Champions League stats as manager

Robert Baum

Did Lionel Messi have an affair with Sofia Martinez?

Robert Baum

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More