Ipswich Town 'on brink' of signing Leeds United academy graduate despite Everton and Aston Villa 'interest'

The 28-year-old has featured for Manchester City in a string of pre-season friendlies and was on the bench for their Community Shield clash with Manchester United.

Despite his involvement, and impressive pre-season showing at centre-back, Phillips does not appear to have a future at the Etihad Stadium. He has been linked with Everton and Aston Villa this summer, although newly-promoted Ipswich are believed to be closing in on his signature.

According to The Telegraph’s Mike McGrath, the Tractor Boys are on the verge of agreeing a season-long loan deal. The move would mark Phillips’ second loan switch away from Manchester City, following his stint at West Ham United last term.

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It was a move that many believed would breathe life into the midfielder’s career, but he failed to rediscover the form he had shown at Leeds. His struggles also pushed him down the England pecking order and he missed out on Euro 2024.

Phillips joined Manchester City two years ago, joining from Leeds in a deal reported to be worth £45m. He had been a key figure for the Whites, particularly during the reign of Marcelo Bielsa.