Mark Douglas at the i has released an update on Newcastle’s January transfer plans, revealing the latest on our ongoing pursuit of Kalvin Phillips.
He reports that we have held preliminary talks with Man City over a temporary deal, but have been left with a couple of dilemmas over his potential move to St James’ Park.
The first is a loan fee – thought to be in the region of £5-£7m – and the second is the fact City want an obligation to buy worth around £40m added into the deal. While Newcastle could afford this fee in the summer, it’s not clear if this deal fits into the clubs long-term plans, as Toon chiefs are eager to leave room for a series of ‘transformational’ signings at the end of the season.
So the club must decide whether to move some of our summer budget forward – despite January being a poor window to find value for money deals – and work out whether Phillips would be worth a loan-to-buy commitment.
The third issue is rival interest. Juventus are offering Phillips guaranteed playing time, PSG have shown interest and it’s believed Crystal Palace and Fulham are also making checks on his availability.
Reading between the lines, Newcastle seem to prefer a straight loan for Phillips that gives us flexibility this summer. After all, if his loan spell flopped and we were committed to a £40m spend, it would take a hefty chunk away from our end-of-season budget and may be deemed a big risk for a player who has played so little football since leaving Leeds 18 months ago. On the flip side, our squad desperately needs a boost and Phillips appears to be our top target, so the challenge will be striking a deal that works for us and Man City; who may be reluctant to sanction a straight loan if interested parties are prepared to guarantee him minutes and City a future sale.
Newcastle don't want to disrupt 'transformative' long-term transfer plans with reactive moves.
⚫️ Phillips move 'in play' but complicated – can they strike balance?
⚪️ Loans possible
⚫️ Dan Burn tells @iPaperSport January is 'make or break month'Read 👇https://t.co/HFWGET71D2
— Mark Douglas (@MsiDouglas) January 2, 2024
