Wolves 'set sights' on Leeds United academy graduate Kalvin Phillips amid Manchester City struggles
Wolverhampton Wanderers have reportedly set their sights on signing Leeds United academy product Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City.
After unspectacular loan spells at West Ham United and Ipswich Town, Phillips is back in Manchester City’s 25-man Premier League squad.
The move to feature him came as a surprise given his lowly status in the squad, although it has not proven to be the catalyst for a resurgence.
This season, the England-capped midfielder has not made a single appearance in the Premier League.
His only outing came in September, when he was introduced as a substitute in a Carabao Cup win over Huddersfield Town.
Kalvin Phillips eyed
According to Football Insider, Phillips could be given a seemingly much-needed exit route in the winter window.
Premier League basement boys Wolves are believed to be keen on the combative midfielder as they look to usher in a new era under head coach Rob Edwards.
Also believed to be in the sights of the Midlands club is Everton winger Dwight McNeil, with loan and permanent deals to be explored.
Fresh start needed
Phillips enjoyed a fairytale rise to prominence at his boyhood club Leeds, playing a key role as the Whites clinched the Championship title in 2020.
He later established himself in the Premier League, continuing to be a crucial cog in Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds machine.
It was hoped his £45m move to Manchester City would be a springboard to greatness but opportunities have proven limited.
While another loan switch does not appear unlikely, a permanent move and a fresh start may be what Phillips needs eventually.
At just 29, he could still have a lot to offer at Premier League level but looks to be in need of a new environment.
Leeds have repeatedly been linked with a swoop for their former star over the years, although a homecoming has never seemed close to materialising.