Aston Villa 'persist with Man City midfielder interest' and more transfer rumours

Aston Villa are still interested in Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips despite the midfielder vowing to make a mark at the Etihad Stadium.

Phillips has endured a disappointing first season at City following his summer move from Leeds United in a deal worth £42million. The 27-year-old was brought in to compete with Rodri for the defensive midfield spot, with Fernandinho returning to Athletico Paranaense in Brazil following his release.

However, the England international has been unable to displace the ever-present Rodri and has struggled with City's complex tactics. He has started just one game in the Premier League, in the 1-0 victory over Chelsea after their status as league champions was confirmed.

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Phillips has vowed to come back better next season and is looking forward to the next five years he is contracted for at Pep Guardiola's side. Despite this vow and being happy where he is, Phillips is still attracting interest from potential other suitors.

According to Football Insider, Aston Villa have not been put off Phillips despite the midfielder's public assurance that he is happy at City.

Villa boss Unai Emery is a big admirer of the former Leeds midfielder. The Villa Park side are hoping that City could be persuaded into a sale to raise money to go towards other signings this summer.

Elsewhere, City remain interested in bringing Joshua Kimmich to the club from Bayern Munich. 90min reports that the German international is of interest to Pep Guardiola's side.

Joao Cancelo is on loan at Bayern from City at present. A deal could be formulated which sees Cancelo move to Bavaria on a permanent basis this