Kalvin Phillips would be a decent signing for Liverpool, but only for a discount price.
Phillips has been heavily linked with joining the Reds in the final days of the summer transfer window. With Liverpool still scrambling for a midfielder, the Manchester City man’s name has been put forward more than once.
Should Jurgen Klopp turn to Phillips though, it wouldn’t be a universally popular decision. This is something Murphy acknowledged when speaking to TalkSPORT yesterday.
“It would depend on the price,” said the former Red, when asked about Phillips. “If it was a half price of what they got for him, maybe it would make sense. But there is a stumbling block in terms of the perception. I think if Liverpool were seen to be getting a player at City who couldn’t get a kick, I’m not sure how that would go down.
“But I like him, I think he’s a talent. I wouldn’t be that disappointed if Liverpool got him. I think he is a talent and he would be great cover or make that position his own as they only have Endo really who can play that position.”
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Liverpool linked with Phillips move
Given that Phillips cost City £45m, Murphy is suggesting that he’d be a good signing at under £25m.
In fairness, we’d probably agree with that. If the 27-year-old was brought in on a short-term contract as competition with Wataru Endo, maybe it could work.
But seeing as Pep Guardiola signed him just a year ago, it seems unlikely that City would sell him for that amount. Especially to Liverpool.
Besides, there have been strong reports that Phillips doesn’t want to leave City anyway.
It’s true that he may not have all that much choice in the matter if push comes to shove. Guardiola can often be ruthless when he decides a player is no longer needed. For the time being though, it looks more likely that the England international stays put.
If that turns out to be the case, then you won’t find too many Liverpool fans complaining.
But if the alternative is to fail to strengthen further, or add Phillips at a heavily discounted price, then there’s no question, bring him in.