In a surprising turn of events, Newcastle United is now facing unexpected competition in the ongoing race to secure the services of Kalvin Phillips during this transfer window.

What seemed like an inevitable move for the 28-year-old to join Newcastle United has taken a twist. Phillips has reportedly expressed a keen interest in leaving Manchester City to sign with the Magpies on loan. The prospect of working under Eddie Howe’s managerial guidance has added allure for Phillips, considering Howe’s track record of enhancing the performance of players since taking charge at St James’ Park. Additionally, Juventus withdrawing their interest in the midfielder appeared to clear the path for Newcastle.

However, the potential acquisition of Phillips may be contingent on some departures from Newcastle, given the challenges posed by profit and sustainability rules during the January transfer window. Many clubs are grappling with these obstacles, but Tottenham Hotspur has been notably active, securing two signings in Timo Werner and Radu Dragusin.

Now, Tottenham is eyeing a third signing, and this development could impact Newcastle United significantly. According to the Northern Echo, Tottenham has expressed interest in acquiring Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City this month. The departure of Eric Dier has reportedly created a vacancy in Tottenham’s squad, prompting some influential voices within the club to advocate for Phillips.

If Phillips were to move to Tottenham, it would mark the second significant transfer that Newcastle has missed out on within a year. The first was James Maddison during the summer, and now the potential loss of Phillips looms.

Newcastle’s urgency to secure the £42 million midfielder has heightened in recent days, with Eddie Howe confirming that Joelinton will be sidelined for the next six weeks. This injury setback leaves the Magpies with only three fully fit central midfielders.

Phillips was spotted at St James’ Park on Saturday, witnessing Manchester City secure a late victory over Newcastle. Whether he returns to Tyneside this month remains uncertain, but the unexpected interest from Tottenham adds a layer of complexity to the unfolding transfer saga.