{{primary_category}}
{{/primary_category}} 
Sources: West Ham join race as Man City tell Kalvin Phillips he can go
West Ham have joined Newcastle in the race for Man City midfielder Kalvin Phillips ahead of the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.
It is believed City are ready to listen to offers for Phillips, 27, and tell him he is free to find a new club.
The treble-winners are open to a loan or permanent exit for the midfielder, who does not fit into Pep Guardiola’s long-term plans at the Etihad Stadium.
It is believed Guardiola feels the 2022 signing lacks the athleticism and speed required to play in the number six role.
The Spaniard has been concerned about Phillips’ inability to cover ground in the midfield and prevent quick counter-attacks – and is now ready to part with him in January.
Newcastle have a strong interest in the England international following Sandro Tonali’s 10-month betting rule breach suspension.
But West Ham are now also keen on Phillips amid doubts over the long-term future of Tomas Soucek – whose contract is currently set to expire at the end of this season and talks over an extension have failed to secure an agreement.
The ex-Leeds star, who moved from Elland Road to City for a reported £45million last summer (2022), has made eight appearances totalling just 215 minutes of action this season.
He was handed a rare start against Newcastle in the League Cup but Guardiola’s side were eliminated from the competition with a 1-0 loss at St James’ Park.
Phillips, who has managed to keep his England place despite his lack of club action, has played just 808 minutes of football in total since joining City.
He is under contract at the Etihad Stadium until June 2028.
In other news, West Ham in striker talks amid “huge offer” reveal.