Newcastle handed major boost in push for Man City midfielder

Newcastle have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of out-of-favour Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips, reports the Daily Mail. 

Phillips is free to find a new club this month having struggled for regular game time following his arrival from Leeds United in 2022. 

The England international has started just two league matches for the defending champions having dropped down the pecking order at the Etihad Stadium, while injuries have also played a part in Phillips' struggles for minutes. 

The 28-year-old needs to be playing regularly ahead of Euro 2024 for fear of losing his spot for the Three Lions with a January move likely. 

Juventus had been linked with a move for Phillips, however the Old Lady have since cooled their interest in the former Leeds man. 

This is a boost for Newcastle, who are looking to add bodies to their midfield for the second half of the season. 

Elliot Anderson and Joe Willock are currently sidelined due to injury, while Sandro Tonali is suspended until next season, leaving Eddie Howe with few options in a key area of the pitch.