Everton FC are reportedly interested in signing Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips on a loan deal for the upcoming season. The 28-year-old England international has struggled to make an impact at City since his £42.5m move from Leeds in 2022, starting just six games and featuring for only 89 minutes in the Premier League last season.
Phillips’ loan spell at West Ham United in the second half of last season was also unsuccessful, with the midfielder giving away a goal on his debut, starting just three games, and being sent off in the defeat to Nottingham Forest. Despite this, Everton manager Sean Dyche is said to be an admirer of Phillips, who has won 31 caps for England and started every game as his country reached the final of Euro 2020.
City manager Pep Guardiola has been critical of Phillips, apologizing in December for picking him so rarely and stating that he struggles to see him in his team. While City may want to sell Phillips, who also attracted interest from Juventus and Newcastle before joining West Ham in January, Everton would prefer a loan deal.
The Toffees are likely to have a limited transfer budget this summer, amid uncertainty over the club’s ownership and the need to pay for their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. They have also failed Profitability and Sustainability Rules for each of the last two financial years. As a result, a loan deal for Phillips would be a more feasible option for Everton.
In addition to their interest in Phillips, Everton are also hoping to take Jack Harrison back on loan from Leeds for a second successive season. Their chances of securing a deal have been enhanced after Daniel Farke’s team lost Sunday’s Championship play-off final. The Toffees have also offered new one-year contracts to veterans Ashley Young and Seamus Coleman as Dyche looks to build his squad for next season.
Phillips’ potential move to Everton would be a fresh start for the midfielder, who has struggled to make an impact at City. Despite his difficulties, Phillips remains a talented player who has shown his quality on the international stage. A loan deal would allow him to regain his form and confidence, and potentially earn a permanent move to Everton or another club in the future.
The transfer window is always full of surprises, and this potential deal is no exception. While Phillips’ move to Everton is not yet confirmed, it would be a shrewd signing for the Toffees, who are looking to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. With Dyche at the helm, Everton are looking to build a team that can compete in the Premier League, and the addition of Phillips would be a step in the right direction.