Manchester United are reportedly considering a shock move for Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips in the January transfer window.
Phillips, 28, has won the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup since joining City from Leeds United in a £42m move in 2022.
But he has endured a torrid time in terms of his individual form, managing only 29 appearances for the club – the majority from the bench.
Advert
Injuries have severely impacted the England international's time at the Etihad, while Pep Guardiola has often overlooked him when he is fully fit.
Earlier this month Guardiola apologised to Phillips for his treatment, effectively confirming the midfielder's future lies elsewhere.
When asked if Phillips could leave, Guardiola said: "I don't know what's going to happen. I feel so sorry for my decision for him. I've said that many times.
Advert
"He doesn't deserve what has happened to him and I'm so sorry. The only thing I can say about him is I am asking for good personalities and characters and he is a perfect example. And after that I have to give him something and I didn't do that.
"It's just because I visualise some things and visualise the team and things - and I struggle to see him.
"I'm not very pleased [with myself] and I am so sorry for him. I will not say that [to him] because it is a business and I have to be a professional.
"But if one guy behaves [poorly], I don't care. But the way he behaves with the team-mates and everyone, I care. So that's why hopefully it can turn around. And I've said many times, if it comes to January and he stays, I'm more than pleased because he trains really good and he's a lovely guy and character."
Advert
Everton and Newcastle have both been linked with Phillips, while The Sun claim United are considering a shock bid for the English midfielder.
United insiders claim United manager Erik ten Hag is a "big fan" and that Phillips is the "perfect fit" for the Red Devils.
A source said: "United are watching the situation with Phillips very carefully.
Advert
"He is likely to go out on loan in January, but he will then be looking for a permanent switch in the summer, and Ten Hag wants to be right at the front of the queue."
However, United could struggle to sign Phillips even if City are willing to sell to one of their biggest rivals.
Speaking after his move to Etihad, boyhood Leeds fan Phillips says he would never consider signing for United.
"Going to United? There was never any chance of me going there. You know my loyalty to Leeds. My family are all Leeds fans," said Phillips.
Advert
"I was honoured by Man Utd wanting me, one of the biggest teams in the world, but no, I had to stay loyal to Leeds and go to the other side of Manchester."
Phillips added: "I don't know, it's just the way I am, the way I think and the way I'll always be.
"I want to be loyal to the people who've given me the biggest opportunity in the world. Leeds were the first team to sign me, I made sure that was one of the main things I'd do."
Featured Image Credit: GettyTopics: Kalvin Phillips, Leeds United, Manchester United, Premier League, Transfers, Manchester City