Leeds United academy graduate seals Manchester City exit with loan move to West Ham United

The midfielder’s move away from the Etihad Stadium has finally been confirmed following months of speculation. He had been linked with a host of clubs, including Newcastle United and Crystal Palace, but has been unveiled by the Hammers.

He has joined a side that sit sixth in the Premier League, eight points adrift of his parent club in second. He has been handed the number 11 shirt at the London Stadium.

After putting pen to paper, Phillips said: “I’m really pleased to be here. There’s always been a lot of speculation about me moving to West Ham, so I’m really excited to get going now.

“There’s so much to look forward to in the second half of the season for the club and I can’t wait to be part of it.

“There’s an unbelievable group here and if I can come in and add the quality that I know I’m capable of, I’m sure we can give the West Ham fans plenty to be excited about between now and the end of the season."

Phillips ascended the youth ranks of his boyhood club Leeds, eventually becoming a key figure at senior level for the Whites. His form attracted plenty of attention and in 2022, he joined Manchester City for a fee reported to be worth £45m.

However, competition for places proved stern under Pep Guardiola and he has just 31 appearances for the club on his CV.

West Ham boss David Moyes said: “We are really pleased to bring a player of Kalvin’s quality to West Ham United. We’ve been big admirers of him for a long time and we believe that he will add strength and competition to our squad.

“Kalvin is an England international midfielder, with proven Premier League experience. We’re excited to welcome him into the group and look forward to working with him.”