According to GiveMeSport, Everton completing a loan move for England midfielder Kalvin Phillips may have a domino effect that frees up Manchester City to bring in a replacement. The website reported on 8 August that City is still planning on sending Phillips to a new club this summer, and Everton is one of the clubs exploring a temporary deal for the 28-year-old midfielder.
City reportedly prefers to offload Phillips on a permanent deal due to his lack of playing time last season, even while on loan at West Ham. However, it is more likely that Sean Dyche’s side will pursue a loan move for the player. The Blues have been on the lookout for a defensive midfielder ever since Amadou Onana’s departure to Aston Villa, and signing Phillips on loan would be seen as a statement of intent.
A move to Goodison Park on loan could prove beneficial for both Phillips and Everton. It would allow Phillips to showcase his defensive screening and long-range passing abilities in a team that may not dominate possession as much as Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. Providing an outlet on the transition, especially with former Leeds teammate Jack Harrison to target out wide, is a role that Phillips excels at but hasn’t been required to do much at the Etihad Stadium.
With Everton aiming for a smoother campaign than their previous season, and the raucous atmosphere of Goodison Park in its final season, Phillips could be the perfect fit for Dyche’s plans. The manager has been tipped to revive Phillips’ career, and with both player and club seeking a fresh start next season, a loan move to Everton could be the next step in their respective journeys. Dyche should act quickly to secure this move and maximize the potential benefits for all parties involved.
