Newcastle boss Eddie Howe gives update on interest in Man City outcast Kalvin Phillips

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has cooled transfer talk around Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips, insisting his club are nowhere near completing a deal.

The 28-year-old is tipped to leave the Blues next month having failed to start a Premier League game this season. He has started just two of his 10 matches across all competitions and has played just 19 minutes in the league since September.

Newcastle have been most linked with Phillips as the Magpies potentially search for a temporary replacement for Sandro Tonali, who is currently serving a 10-month betting ban. However, Howe’s January transfer freedom is being restricted by Financial Fair Play regulations.

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It means a permanent deal for Phillips may be unlikely while the club would also be cautious about shelling out a loan fee for a player. Asked where plans are up to regarding January transfers on Friday, Howe said that "nothing is close".

When prompted about Phillips specifically, he replied: "If nothing else is close that can’t be close." Howe is not hiding the fact that the winter window could be tough for his club, adding: "January is always a difficult month.

"We haven't had those assurances [about funds]. I apologise if I sound like I'm saying the same things, but it is a very difficult month to bring in quality players. Financial Fair Play continues to play a part in our decision-making, so let's wait and see."

This may mean an exit to St James’ Park for Phillips may not be so straightforward. Among other clubs linked with the England star - who is looking to secure his spot in the Euro 2024 squad - are Juventus, who have lost