Man City identify Phillips as TOP candidate to replace Fernandinho

Manchester City have set their sights on securing a new central midfielder, with Leeds United’s Kalvin Phillips top of a list of replacements for departing captain Fernandinho.

The Brazilian said farewell to fans at Monday's Premier League title parade as he heads back to Athletico Paranaense after nine years at the Etihad.

Phillips has been identified as possessing the perfect profile for the squad and City are expected to pursue him in the coming weeks. 

The England international has shone for Leeds, despite the club only saving themselves from relegation on a dramatic final day of the season. Leeds’ survival is expected to increase the fee they want for Phillips.

Although primarily a holding midfielder, the 26-year-old could be seen as an option to the right of Pep Guardiola’s first choice at that position, Rodri.

There will be a need for at least one new recruit in that area as City look to follow up the eye-catching capture of Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland. Julian Alvarez, another forward, is joining from River Plate. Riyad Mahrez, Gabriel Jesus, Raheem Sterling and Sunday’s two-goal hero Ilkay Gundogan are all entering the final year of their contracts.

Jesus has interest from north London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham and admitted he could depart. ‘About my future, it’s still uncertain,’ he said.

‘I have already expressed my desire to the people at the club and to my agent. I have in my head very clear what I want.’

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Sterling has held amicable talks with City. The 27-year-old, whose assist sparked City’s comeback against Aston Villa on Sunday, wants to focus on England duty over the next three weeks.

Guardiola told