Bayern Munich have added Manchester City outcast Kalvin Phillips to their extensive shortlist as their search for a new defensive midfielder continues.
According to Christian Falk, the England international is one of several candidates under consideration by the Bayern hierarchy despite his lack of playing time at Man City.
Since joining the nine-time Premier League winners in 2021, Phillips has only made 26 appearances under Pep Guardiola.
The Englishman was part of the treble-winning squad last season, although he contributed next to nothing to their historic achievement, making just 21 appearances across all competitions.
The 2023/24 campaign has failed to spark a turnaround in the midfielder’s fortunes, playing just 167 minutes of football across all competitions.
Even in the absence of midfield maestro Rodri, who has been suspended for Man City’s last three domestic outings, Phillips has struggled to assert himself in Guardiola’s long-term plans.
With no signs of better fortunes on the horizon, a winter exit has been mooted for the Englishman, who was considered one of the best in the Premier League during his days with Leeds.
He has now emerged as one of the contenders to fill the defensive midfield void at Bayern, with Man City unlikely to stand in the way of a potential exit, especially following the emergence of the versatile Rico Lewis.
Bayern are expected to re-launch a proposal to sign Joao Palhinha, who remains a priority for the club following his failed move to the Allianz Arena on deadline day.
The Fulham midfielder had already completed his medical ahead of joining Bayern, but the transfer failed to materialise before the window closed.
The Portuguese destroyer has since signed a new long-term deal with Fulham, but that is unlikely to deter Bayern, who are determined to land his signature.
The perennial Bundesliga champions are also keeping an eye on Borrusia Monchengladbach midfielder Manu Kone, but they may face competition from Liverpool.
