Major update on future of Kalvin Phillips after Premier League club emerge as front-runner for player’s signature

Everton are poised to win the race to sign Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips this summer.

The 28-year-old has impressed during Manchester City’s pre-season tour of the United States this summer, featuring as an unorthodox centre-back during recent friendly fixtures against both FC Barcelona and Chelsea.

Phillips’ recent performances may have failed to convince manager Pep Guardiola however, with the Englishman still set to complete a season-long loan exit from the Etihad Stadium ahead of the new campaign, according to new reports.

The midfielder spent the final six months of the 2023/24 season at the London Stadium with West Ham United, with the Englishman having made just six starts for Manchester City since joining the Sky Blues from Leeds United for £42 million.

Phillips, who wasn’t selected by Gareth Southgate for the European Championship in Germany, featured eight times for the Hammers in the Premier League, and also played in the UEFA Europa League during his short-term loan.

West Ham have chosen against moving to re-sign the 28-year-old, however the midfielder could complete a move elsewhere within the Premier League after returning to east Manchester following the Blues’ four-match tour of the US.

Outlet Football Insider claim that Goodison Park has emerged as the most likely destination for the Englishman, with Everton leading the race to sign the 28-year-old ahead of fellow Premier League side Aston Villa.

Etihad bosses had reportedly been hoping to agree to the permanent sale of Phillips this summer, however Everton are looking to complete a season-long loan deal for the midfielder, with Sean Dyche battling ongoing financial problems at the Merseyside club.

Phillips won five trophies with the Blues prior to moving to West Ham on loan, and was rewarded with a Premier League medal in May, despite featuring only 10 times for Manchester City.