Kalvin Phillips reportedly left Manchester City analysts baffled today in their pre-season opener, with Liverpool believed to be interested in the midfielder.
According to the Athletic, club officials were left with ‘their hands on their heads’ after Phillips miscontrolled a pass from goalkeeper Stefan Ortega, with the former Leeds United star miscontrolling the ball moments later.
Despite playing a role in City’s first goal in what was to be a 5-3 win, it was a performance that did little to help Phillip’s chances of playing a key role for Pep Guardiola at the club next season.
And this could be a big aid in Liverpool potentially signing the midfielder, with the Reds keeping tabs on the England international just one year after Phillips completed his £45m move to the Etihad Stadium.
With Jordan Henderson and Fabinho both set to officially leave Liverpool next week, interest in Phillips could realistically ramp up in the coming days. And this pre-season performance could play its part.
Indeed, Phillips joining Liverpool still feels like an unlikely transfer given the two clubs involved in such a deal. Yet having let club analysts baffled today, the midfielder could be inching towards a move.
Liverpool have to decide on signing Phillips this week
Phillips has been a surprise target for Liverpool this summer, and whilst his performance in Japan this weekend might have left even City officials worried, the Reds must decide soon if they want to move for the midfielder.
As we know, Phillips is in the prime of his career and could be an incredible addition to Liverpool’s ranks if he can get back up to speed and fully fit for the new Premier League season.
However, Liverpool must decide this week if they want to pursue the 27-year-old, with time slowly running out for the Reds to sign a new defensive midfielder to anchor the new-look team.
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