Juventus considering January approach for Manchester City treble-winner

Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips is subject to interest from Serie A giants Juventus, as the Italian club grapple with a midfield crisis.

The 27-year-old, who was part of Manchester City’s treble-winning side last season, rejected the opportunity to leave the Etihad Stadium during the recent summer transfer window, amid a lack of minutes during the 2022/23 campaign.

Phillips made just four starts for Pep Guardiola’s side last season, and has made only six appearances for Manchester City so far this year, despite Rodri recently being handed a three-match suspension.

The England international started the Three Lions’ recent win over Italy at Wembley Stadium, but risks missing out on a place at next summer’s European Championship in Germany, should the midfielder fail to play regularly.

Gareth Southgate’s recent warning has reportedly caused Phillips to reconsider his future at the Etihad Stadium, despite signing a six-year deal in 2022, upon moving from Leeds United for £42 million.

Newcastle and Tottenham are amongst the Premier League clubs credited with interest in signing Phillips in January, with Eddie Howe’s side currently dealing with Sandro Tonali’s 10-month suspension.

The Italian betting scandal has also impacted Serie A side Juventus, after midfielder Nicolo Fagioli was handed a seven-month footballing suspension.

Juventus, who could also lose Paul Pogba after a failed doping test, are looking to strengthen their midfield in January, as a result of potentially losing two crucial players.

Therefore, the Italian heavyweights are claimed to be ‘keeping tabs’ on the situation surrounding Phillips’ future at Manchester City, with the 27-year-old on the radar of Juventus ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

Juventus would be willing to offer an initial loan deal with a buy option, according to the Italian outlet, with Spurs’ Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg also on their transfer list.

Phillips hasn’t started for Manchester City since a 1-0 loss to Newcastle at St James’ Park in the Carabao Cup third round in September.