‘No reason’ - Man City Kalvin Phillips has already made feelings clear on Liverpool transfer

Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips has been linked with a surprise move to Liverpool this summer with Reds star Fabinho the subject of a reported £40m offer from Saudi Arabia.

Widespread reports claim Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad, who are managed by former Tottenham Hotspur and Wolves boss Nuno Espírito Santo, are in discussions with Liverpool over a proposed move for Fabinho.

The Brazilian was believed to be have been part of Liverpool’s plans for the 2023-24 season despite the additions of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai - meaning a potential move would leave Jurgen Klopp short a man in midfield.

Since the reports of a possible move for Fabinho, a number of players have been linked with the Reds, one of which is City man Phillips - who made the switch from Elland Road to the Etihad Stadium last summer for a reported £42m fee.

The England international was limited to just 21 appearances with last season’s treble winners, most of them coming from the bench. He started just two Premier League games, both of which came after City had already sealed the title.

However, speaking last month he has already made clear his desire to fight for his place at the club but he did hint of a move down the line if he continues to play a bit-part role for Pep Guardiola’s side.

He said: “My intention is to stay. We have just won the treble, so there is no reason for me to leave, other than if I am not playing I will obviously have to think about it.

“I cannot give it 12 months and say: ‘I am not playing so I am going to leave.’ As you have seen with many players at City, it can take quite a while to cement yourself into the team.”

He added: “I spoke to quite a few of the players about it [lack of game-time]. Nathan Aké being one; Jack [Grealish]. They all said the same: the first 12 months were the hardest of their City careers but after that it … it doesn’t become easy, but easier. I’m just going to go away for the off-season and enjoy myself with my family and girlfriend and friends and then come back fighting.”