Barcelona not working on deal for Man City outcast, West Ham in direct talks for signing – Romano

Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips has emerged as a hot topic in Barcelona circles in recent weeks, with the club reportedly looking at him as a potential midfield reinforcement.

Barcelona were reportedly open to a loan move for Phillips, who has fallen out of favour at the Etihad Stadium.

With the Englishman struggling with a lack of game-time, he is looking for a way out in an attempt to revive his career.

West Ham in contact with M

However, Barcelona are likely to miss out on Phillips’ signing, with English club West Ham United leading the race.

The Hammers are also keen on shoring up their ranks in the middle of the park, with Phillips emerging as the ideal option.

According to Fabrizio Romano, West Ham are even in direct contact with Manchester City over the midfielder’s move to London.

Kalvin Phillips has emerged as a hot prospect in the market. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

The Hammers are determined to get hold of the former Leeds United starlet, so more updates are likely to follow in the coming days.

Barcelona yet to approach Man City

Fabrizio Romano’s update comes on the back of earlier claims from the Italian transfer expert, who claimed that Barcelona are yet to approach Manchester City for Phillips.

It appears the Catalans are not working on this deal, giving West Ham a free hand on the pursuit, with the operation deemed as financially unfeasible.

With Phillips seemingly ruled out, Barcelona must set their sights on other available options in the market, in their bid to beef up the ranks in the midfield unit.

Swedish talent Lucas Bergvall is a potential option for the Catalans, though the club are set to face stiff competition from Arsenal and Bayern Munich, among other European giants.