According to journalist Rudy Galetti, transfer talks are ‘in progress’ for Kalvin Phillips between Manchester City and Leeds United.
Fernandinho is leaving the Etihad Stadium outfit after spending 9 years at the club after his contract expires this month. He decided not to renew his contract and also expressed his desire to return to Athletico Paranaense. The 37-year-old wants to return to his homeland Brazil so that he can retire at his former club.
Fernandinho was a regular in Man City’s midfield recording 383 apps for the club during his time. He also played a key part in lifting the 14 trophies he won as a Man City player, out of which 5 were Premier League titles.
Now, given his permanent departure, Man City boss Pep Guardiola will look for somebody of his profile who can reprise that same role.
Galetti’s report on the next Manchester City target
Leeds United and England international Kalvin Phillips is on Man City’s radar this summer transfer window. Taking to Twitter, Galetti now shared the latest news on Phillips’ rumoured move to the reigning Premier League champions.
He outlined:
“Contacts between #ManCity and #Leeds for Kalvin #Phillips are in progress. The aim of the [Blues] is to get to the heart of the negotiation soon in order to anticipate the high competition. #Calciomercato #Transfers #MCFC”
With the imminent Fernandino’s departure, to fill the void of his defensive qualities, the 26-year-old can be a proper replacement. He can be the exact profile Guardiola will look for in the midfield.
When compared with players in the same position across Europe’s top five leagues over the last year, the England international ranks in the 98th percentile for pressures, the 97th percentile for tackles and the 96th percentile for blocks (stats via FBRef). Legendary manager Fabio Capello also hailed him as ‘the best modern midfielder’ he has seen.
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