Steve Bruce has commented on Newcastle United’s pursuit of Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips. The English player is anticipated to depart from Manchester City in the upcoming January transfer window, merely 18 months after his £42 million transfer from Leeds United.
In the span of 18 months, Phillips has featured in only 31 matches, with merely two of them translating to Premier League starts. Despite opting to remain and compete for his position during the summer, the 28-year-old’s circumstances haven’t improved, prompting him to actively pursue consistent first-team opportunities to strengthen his chances of securing a place in England’s Euro 2024 squad.
Newcastle Unit
When questioned by Sky Sports News about the prospect of Newcastle signing Phillips, Bruce commented, “The kid is an exceptionally talented player. Whether that means Bruno Guimaraes plays as an eight? That’s a question for Eddie.
“Based on what I observed over the weekend, Guimaraes stood out as the best player on the pitch. He was outstanding.
“The dilemma they’ll face is whether he will continue in the number six position or if he prefers a more advanced role.”ed and Juventus are acknowledged as the leading contenders in the race for Phillips. Eddie Howe is contemplating the addition of a midfielder as a temporary substitute for Sandro Tonali, who faces a football suspension until August due to involvement in illegal betting.
Yet, Steve Bruce is of the opinion that the likelihood of Phillips joining Newcastle depends on Howe’s strategy for Bruno Guimaraes. The Brazilian currently occupies the No.6 role in the Magpies’ three-man midfield, a position for which Phillips is well-known. The former Newcastle head coach proposes that signing Phillips should only be considered if there is a willingness to deploy Guimaraes in a more advanced position.
“Undoubtedly, Phillips would elevate any team due to his inherent qualities. He is youthful, possesses tenacity, and, as demonstrated in his performances for Leeds and England, exhibits considerable skill.”
“It hasn’t quite happened for him at Man City for whatever reason. I have to say he was Rodri in front of him, who is arguably as good as any midfield player in the league.
“All those questions you weigh up before you dive in to get him. I’m sure that’s the big question – can he play as an eight and bring Kalvin in?”
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