Juventus ‘in talks’ with Kalvin Phillips and more Man City transfer rumours

Juventus are said to be in talks with Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips ahead of an anticipated exit in January.

The Italian giants, currently fighting for the Serie A title, are in need of a new central player with Paul Pogba and Nicolo Fagioli unavailable due to respective doping and betting bans. Phllips is reportedly a target and Juventus are in talks with the out-of-favour pivot, ESPN says.

The 28-year-old has played just over 90 minutes in the Premier League all season and has started only two games in all competitions. His contract runs until 2028, so City may sanction a January loan in the hopes of getting a good fee in the summer.

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That would suit Juventus, who are forever balancing finances and are set to welcome back Fagioli later next year. Phillips is keen to secure his place in England’s Euro 2024 squad and is thought to be seeking game time assurances from potential suitors.

Newcastle have long been linked amid Sandro Tonali’s own betting ban, although Eddie Howe stayed coy about any interest when speaking to media on Friday. The Magpies would be in a weaker position to offer consistent match time given the central options at their disposal.

City would be more than prepared to keep Phillips for the remainder of the season if a suitable deal cannot be agreed given they have no plans to replace the Leeds-born footballer. However, ESPN says the player has told Pep Guardiola that he wishes to leave.

Meanwhile, City are frontrunners to sign young Serbian prospect Matija Popovic according to Football Insider. The 17-year-old’s contract at Partizan Belgrade expires at the end