Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips is on the verge of joining newly promoted Ipswich Town on a season-long loan, according to multiple sources.
The move comes as Phillips seeks regular playing time after struggling to secure a starting position at City since his £45m transfer from Leeds United two years ago.
Football journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the development via X on Thursdauy, stating, “Kalvin Phillips to Ipswich Town, here we go! Deal sealed between clubs as Phillips’ set for medical tests.” Romano added that the “loan move from Manchester City does not include a buy option clause, per initial agreement.”
The BBC corroborated this information, reporting on Thursday that Phillips is “set to join newly promoted Ipswich Town on loan for the season.”
Phillips’ time at City has been challenging, with the midfielder failing to break into Pep Guardiola’s starting lineup consistently.
In an attempt to salvage his chances of making England’s Euro 2024 squad, Phillips joined West Ham United on loan for the second half of last season.
However, a combination of poor form and injuries derailed his hopes of impressing national team manager Gareth Southgate’
Despite Guardiola speaking positively about Phillips during City’s pre-season tour in the United States, the midfielder was left on the bench during Saturday’s Community Shield victory against Manchester United, even with star midfielder Rodri absent from the squad.
The move to Ipswich Town represents a fresh opportunity for Phillips to regain his form and confidence. The newly promoted ex-Championship side appears to have beaten out competition from several clubs, including Premier League outfit Fulham, to secure Phillips’ services.
According to Romano, Phillips is “ready to sign later today if all goes to plan,” with the deal expected to be finalised by Friday morning.
