Liverpool ignored 'easy' Kalvin Phillips transfer as Jurgen Klopp plots midfield plan

Liverpool had the opportunity to sign Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips earlier in the transfer window before his move to Manchester City was confirmed.

The England international has made the switch to Pep Guardiola's side on a long-term deal until 2028, becoming their fourth arrival of the window after they signed Erling Haaland, Julian Alvarez and Stefan Ortega. City are also chasing Brighton left-back Marc Cucurella as they look to wrap up their summer business.

Phillips started his professional career with the Whites, making his debut as a 19-year-old, and subsequently helped them reach the Premier League in 2019/20 under Marcelo Bielsa. He played a starring role the season after as they finished ninth, earning him a starting place in the England side at Euro 2020.

But the 26-year-old struggled with injuries and fitness issues last season and missed over three months of action after suffering a hamstring complaint back in December. Having played the final eight Premier League games of the season as Leeds survived on the final day, Phillips ultimately earned himself a big-money move to the reigning champions.

It was revealed last month, however, that Liverpool were willing to pass up on a deal for Phillips. According to National News Sport, the Reds could have signed the Leeds-born midfielder but rejected the chance to do so, despite it being considered a relatively 'easy' transfer to complete. Jurgen Klopp's side also had the opportunity to sign Yves Bissouma and Youri Tielemans but chose against the idea of bringing in those players from Brighton and Leicester respectively.

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The reason why the Reds reportedly decided to turn down moving for Phillips is because they do not