Fabrizio Romano has highlighted West Ham’s burgeoning interest in signing Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips on loan in January, as interest from other potential suitors appears to be diminishing.

Despite previous links to Barcelona, Romano reported that the Spanish club has not initiated any discussions with Manchester City regarding Phillips. Additionally, both Juventus and Newcastle have withdrawn from the race, citing financial considerations. Romano emphasized that the deal for Phillips would involve a substantial loan fee and significant wages, making it a pricey endeavor. However, West Ham is actively pursuing the deal and eagerly awaiting Phillips’s decision.

In his Daily Briefing on 21 January, Romano dispelled rumors of Barcelona’s involvement while shedding light on the financial complexities associated with the potential loan. He underscored the costliness of the deal, which has deterred interest from clubs such as Juventus and Newcastle, despite Phillips’s standing as an admired player.

Although West Ham boasts a strong midfield lineup comprising James Ward-Prowse, Edson Alvarez, and Thomas Soucek, the opportunity to bring in a player of Phillips’s caliber is difficult to overlook. Phillips, an England regular and a player with experience in Manchester City’s treble-winning campaign, holds invaluable qualities that could significantly bolster West Ham’s squad, especially in their pursuit of further silverware this season.

While the financial implications of the deal pose a concern, the potential to enhance the squad with Phillips’s quality and experience could prove to be a decisive factor, notably with the Europa League firmly within reach for West Ham. Therefore, securing Phillips’s signature could represent a crucial move for the club in their ambition for success in domestic and European competitions.