Everton’s pursuit of Kalvin Phillips has hit a snag, as Dan Friedkin’s potential takeover of the club has thrown a twist into the transfer saga. Friedkin, who also owns Roma, is reportedly interested in signing Phillips for the Italian side, rather than the Toffees.
Phillips’ departure from Manchester City seems inevitable after a failed loan move to West Ham, but it remains to be seen which of Friedkin’s two clubs he will end up at this summer. Everton fans will argue that their team needs a player of Phillips’ quality more than Roma does, especially after a relegation battle last season.
However, Friedkin’s decision will ultimately come down to his own priorities. As the potential new owner of Everton, he may want to make a headline signing to mark his arrival at Goodison Park. On the other hand, he may choose to continue building his project at Roma, where he has been owner since 2020.
Sean Dyche, Everton’s manager, is a big fan of Phillips, and Roma manager Daniele De Rossi reportedly shares the same sentiment. However, the final say will be Friedkin’s, and he must weigh up the benefits of signing Phillips for either club.
Everton’s need for a player like Phillips is clear. After a season marked by Profit and Sustainability breaches and a relegation battle, the Toffees are looking to strengthen their squad and avoid similar struggles next season. Phillips’ quality and experience would be a significant boost to the team, and his signing would be a statement of intent from Friedkin.
However, Roma also have a strong claim to Phillips’ services. De Rossi is building a project at the Italian club, and Phillips would be a key addition to his squad. With Friedkin’s takeover of Everton yet to be officially ratified, he may choose to prioritize his existing project at Roma.
The decision ultimately comes down to Friedkin’s vision for both clubs. If he sees Phillips as a key player in his plans for Everton, he may choose to sign him for the Toffees. However, if he believes that Phillips would be more valuable to Roma, he may opt to sign him for the Italian side instead.
In either case, Phillips’ future looks set to be resolved soon. With Friedkin’s takeover of Everton expected to be completed in the coming weeks, the American billionaire will have to make a decision on Phillips’ destination. Everton fans will be hoping that he chooses to bring the England midfielder to Goodison Park, but only time will tell.