Kalvin Phillips agrees to West Ham transfer after struggling for first team action at Man City

7 months ago 42
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Kalvin Phillips has agreed to join West Ham, talksPORT understands.

Talks between the Hammers and Manchester City over the terms of a loan move are at an advanced stage.

Phillips is set to be on his way to West Ham

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Phillips is set to be on his way to West HamCredit: Getty

Both clubs are hopeful of thrashing out a deal.

The Hammers' interest in England midfielder Phillips has been driven by manager David Moyes.

The 28-year-old has played just 89 minutes in the Premier League all season and is keen for a move to boost his chances of playing at Euro 2024.

Phillips has struggled to force his way into Pep Guardiola's starting XI, even when star man Rodri has been out.

City agreed a deal worth up to £45million with Leeds in July 2022 for the defensive midfielder.

However, he has played just 31 times in the last 18 months at the Etihad, with many of those appearances off the bench.

Newcastle had been keen to sign Phillips on loan due to Sandro Tonali's betting ban, but deemed the terms City were asking for too much.

Roy Hodgson publicly made Crystal Palace's interest in signing the midfielder known, but West Ham have won the race.

The Hammers are currently sixth in the Premier League and sailed through their Europa League group.

Moyes has been the driving force behind West Ham's pursuit of Phillips

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Moyes has been the driving force behind West Ham's pursuit of PhillipsCredit: Getty

Phillips' move to City has been a disappointment for all involvement and could eventually lead to a permanent exit in the summer.

Boss Pep Guardiola even apologised to him for his lack of game-time, but admitted he struggled to see him part of his plans.

In December, he said: "I don't know what's going to happen. I feel so sorry for my decision for him. I've said that many times.

"He doesn't deserve what has happened to him and I'm so sorry.

"The only thing I can say about him is I am asking for good personalities and characters and he is a perfect example. And after that I have to give him something and I didn't do that.

Guardiola apologised to Phillips for his lack of game-time at City

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Guardiola apologised to Phillips for his lack of game-time at CityCredit: Rex

"It's just because I visualise some things and visualise the team and things - and I struggle to see him.

"I'm not very pleased [with myself] and I am so sorry for him. I will not say that [to him] because it is a business and I have to be a professional.

"But if one guy behaves [poorly], I don't care. But the way he behaves with the team-mates and everyone, I care. So that's why hopefully it can turn around.

"And I've said many times, if it comes to January and he stays, I'm more than pleased because he trains really good and he's a lovely guy and character."

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