Barcelona, Atletico Madrid interested in out-of-favour Manchester City midfielder – English sources

It is no secret that Barcelona are eager to sign a new midfielder before the current transfer window slams shut.

With Gavi out for the season, Pedri’s well-known fitness problems, and Oriol Romeu’s declining form, it has become important for the La Liga champions to bring in a reinforcement in the centre of the park, even though the Financial Fair Play situation makes matters difficult.

Despite that, Barcelona are making efforts to generate some Fair Play margin and sign a new player, with several options identified as possible targets.

Man City’s Kalvin Phillips a target

Amidst this, the Telegraph’s Matt Law is reporting that Barcelona are one of the clubs interested in signing out-of-favour Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips.

Phillips joined Manchester City from Leeds United in the summer of 2022, but has never been able to carve out a place for himself under Pep Guardiola.

The England international has been largely overlooked in the ongoing campaign and has played just ten times in all competitions despite City having had some injuries in midfield.

With the Euros coming up later this year, the midfielder is eager to leave City for a club where he can play regularly so as to make the England squad for the tournament.

And, there appears to be no shortage of suitors, with the report suggesting that Barcelona are one among at least six clubs wanting to sign Phillips.

Competition for Phillips

No shortage of suitors for Phillips. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

However, Barcelona will have to face competition from La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid, who are also in the running to sign the England star.

Furthermore, Premier League clubs like Newcastle United, West Ham United, and Crystal Palace are also keen, along with Italian giants Juventus.

It was believed that Newcastle and Juventus were leading the case, but they have delayed making a move leaving the door open for others.

A move to a European giant like Barcelona or Atletico could appeal to Phillips, but joining the likes of West Ham or Crystal Palace would guarantee regular minutes.

The report states that Manchester City are not insistent on inserting a permanent buy clause for Phillips nor are they fixated on any financial demands to loan him out.

With Barcelona eager to sign a midfielder, it will be interesting to see if they opt to act on their interest in Phillips.