Ipswich Town: Blues eye move for Man City midfielder Kalvin Phillips

The link was first reported by the Manchester Evening News, who claim that Fulham and Everton are also keen on adding the England international ahead of the upcoming Premier League campaign.

The 28-year-old started his career at Leeds United, switching to Manchester City for £45 million in 2022 after eight years in the first team at Elland Road.

Minutes have been hard to come by under Pep Guardiola, having made just 16 Premier League appearances in 18 months. His form has been hampered by injuries, however, and he struggled out on loan at West Ham in the second half of last season.

His pedigree at the top level speaks for itself, however, as does the fact that he has 31 senior caps to his name for the Three Lions. He wasn't involved at Euro 2024, however, and is clearly in need of a good run to get his career back on track. He's also played seven times in the Champions League, scoring the winner away at Crvena Zvezda in December 2023.

Even if a permanent deal cannot be agreed, it's believed that Man City would sanction another loan move. Phillips has impressed for them in pre-season so far this summer, having stepped in at centre-back.

Phillips spent the second half of last season on loan at West Ham (Image: PA)

Alex's verdict

High risk, high reward? We understand that Phillips is on the list of Town's midfield targets and the idea of him partnering Sam Morsy is mouth-watering. He's strong, defensive, physical and combative. He's used to playing in sides that press hard and transition quickly, but there are obvious question marks.

Guardiola has questioned his fitness before, which might not be ideal for McKenna, who had one of the fittest squads in the league last season. His injury record is also a concern, albeit that the Blues have managed to help players in similar situations.

A loan move would alleviate some of those concerns. He brings significant Premier League experience, having played 73 games in the top flight, and was once considered a key player for Gareth Southgate's England side.

Wages could be a stumbling block, as he's reported to be on £150,000 a week. Ipswich surely wouldn't shatter their wage structure to bring him in on a permanent deal given his age, but they're clearly keen on signing him. They've just got to find the best way to do it while also beating competition from established Premier League rivals.

There's a gap in Town's midfield and a real lack of depth. Phillips would tick a lot of boxes.