Newcastle ‘actively pursuing’ Kalvin Phillips and more Man City transfer rumours

Newcastle have reportedly circled Kalvin Phillips as a potential January target as they await the fallout of Sandro Tonali’s alleged betting breaches.

The Italian midfielder could be banned for a lengthy period of time after admitting to betting on former club Milan to win while on the playing staff. Juventus star Nicolo Fagioli was recently suspended for seven months for breaking gambling regulations.

As such, Newcastle are said to be hunting for a quickfire replacement in January and have enquired about the availability of Phillips, so says Teamtalk. The unfavoured pivot’s agents have reportedly met with Magpies sporting director Dan Ashworth with the player open to the move.

READ MORE: Guardiola responds to Phillips claim about Man City minutes

READ MORE: Phillips Man City future dilemma isn't as drastic as it may seem

Phillips has started just one of his five club outings this season and is at risk of losing his squad spot in England’s Euro 2024 squad, despite the persistent loyalty of Gareth Southgate so far. On Friday, Pep Guardiola refused to rule out a winter exit for Phillips.

He said: "The transfer window is over, now we are here together. When we need a game with transitions or games with something with chaos Kalvin is perfect.

"When there is something you need to do, there are still one or two players who can do it better. That's the simple reason. He will be here until winter. After, I don't know what will happen because nobody knows once the window is open.”

Meanwhile, Sport claims that Barcelona are adamant on not paying more than €25million (£22m) on a permanent deal for Joao Cancelo. The full-back is on loan from City for the season and may be signed by the Catalans next summer if he continues to