According to The Telegraph, Newcastle are prepared to walk away from the negotiations with Manchester City over the proposed transfer of Kalvin Phillips, due to City’s “taxing terms”.
Already without Sandro Tonali through betting-related suspension, Newcastle’s midfield ranks have been dealt another heavy blow with Joelinton set to miss the rest of the season with a groin tendon problem that requires surgery. It obviously leaves the Magpies desperate for reinforcements in the middle of the park.
Phillips has been one of their primary targets for a while. The 26-year-old England international is getting very little game-time at City, having no proper place in Pep Guardiola’s thoughts. For his part, Phillips is believed to be very keen on leaving the Etihad this month, if only on loan, in order to boost his chance of making the England squad for the upcoming Euros.
Newcastle’s reluctance to agree to City’s terms will come as a boost for West Ham, Everton and Crystal Palace, as well as Juventus – all four clubs reportedly hold an interest in Phillips.