Tottenham faces a double transfer setback as West Ham reportedly takes the lead in the race for Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips, leaving Spurs in a precarious situation, according to emerging reports.

Despite Tottenham’s active involvement in the January transfer window, including signings like Timo Werner and Radu Draguson, and allowing several players to depart, the pursuit of Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher has hit a roadblock, with a potential deal collapsing. While Tottenham is reportedly eyeing a summer move for Gallagher, attention may now turn to City’s Phillips for a January acquisition.

Phillips, who has yet to start a Premier League match this season, is reportedly on Tottenham’s radar, with a potential loan fee ranging between £5-6 million. Despite the setback with Gallagher, Spurs are said to be actively exploring other targets.

However, West Ham has emerged as a formidable contender in the race for Phillips, with reports suggesting that the Hammers are keen on securing a deal. Sources indicate that West Ham has surged ahead in the pursuit, and manager David Moyes is actively pushing the board to finalize the deal before the transfer deadline.

Despite being at the forefront, West Ham views Man City’s loan demands as ‘unrealistic’ and is reportedly unwilling to meet the £6-7 million price tag for Phillips for the remainder of the 2023-24 campaign. The England international, also drawing interest from other clubs, is believed to be inclined towards a loan spell at West Ham, desiring regular playing time at the London Stadium in the second half of the season. The unfolding drama adds a layer of uncertainty to Tottenham’s transfer plans, creating an intriguing scenario as the deadline approaches.