Newcastle to battle Italian giants for Man City ace, Man Utd scout Benfica star

Manchester City and England midfielder Kalvin Phillips is in demand this January.

Reports surrounding Newcastle’s interest in Phillips have continued to swirl, however, they will face very stiff competition if they are to secure his signature next month.

Bayern Munich and Juventus have also been credited with an interest in signing Phillips during the January transfer window.

What has Pep Guardiola said previously?

“I said a few months ago, but after that they have to agree with the club. My opinion is my opinion. The last word belongs to the club.

“If he decides to do it [leave], then do it. If the agreement is not done, then he stays. He’s behaving incredibly. One of the most generous players I’ve ever seen – honestly, as I don’t want to compliment when players don’t play matches. Others are maybe problems in locker room – it’s completely the opposite.

“Every time he goes to national team with Gareth [Southgate] I’m the happiest man in the world. When he plays it’s a benefit for me. I don’t know what will happen with Kalvin because when the transfer window is open, nobody knows.”

Manchester United target midfielder

Meanwhile, rivals Manchester United are keeping tabs on a midfielder, according to reports. The Mirror claim Benfica starlet Joao Neves is wanted at Old Trafford.

The Mirror report: "Manchester United scouts watched Benfica starlet Joao Neves score a dramatic equaliser which inspired his side to a dramatic derby-day victory over Sporting Lisbon."

They added: "United boss Erik ten Hag is said to be demanding that his club sign the midfielder in 2024, with current options Casemiro, Christian Eriksen and Bruno Fernandes all aged 29 or older."

Reports in Italy claim Manchester United had scouts at the game.