Newcastle United Eyeing Up Loan Deals For Kalvin Phillips And Conor Gallagher
Newcastle United are exploring the possibility of bringing in Kalvin Phillips and Conor Gallagher on loan this summer, reports The Telegraph.
Last season, the Magpies enjoyed one of their finest seasons in decades. They finished in fourth place – their highest finish since 2003 – and reached the final of the Carabao Cup.
In the coming campaign, the Tyneside outfit will be competing in the Champions League. As a result, new recruits will be necessary to cope with the weight of the extra fixtures.
A deal for AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali is expected to be completed sometime this week, and he might not be the only new face in the middle of the park. According to The Telegraph, Kalvin Phillips and Conor Gallagher could also be on their way to St. James’ Park.
Phillips first made a name for himself at Leeds United, lining up for his boyhood club from 2014 through to 2022. During this time, he helped the Yorkshire side return to the top flight, winning the Championship title.
His performances were enough to attract the attention of England boss Gareth Southgate. He was a key part of the Three Lions side that reached the final of Euro 2020, playing almost every minute and registering an assist in the opening game against Croatia. He was later named as England Men’s Player of the Year for 2021.
The 27-year-old made the switch to Manchester City last summer, signing for an estimated £42 million. While the Cityzens won the treble, Phillips struggled to make an impression, starting just two league games all season.
There have been suggestions that the midfielder could leave the Etihad Stadium in search of regular game time. Despite his recent woes, he has proven in the past that he is more than capable at Premier League level.
The report states that he hopes to stay and fight for his place under Pep Guardiola. However, that could change if he is told that his game time will once again be sporadic.
As for Gallagher, he was a rotational player at Chelsea last term. New manager Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly hoping to give the former Crystal Palace loanee a chance to prove himself at Stamford Bridge, so a move to Newcastle is unlikely.
The midfielder showcased his best stuff at Selhurst Park during the 2021/22 campaign. In 34 league appearances for the Eagles, he scored eight goals and assisted a further three.
This earned him a call-up to the England senior team. He was part of the squad for the 2022 Qatar World Cup, although he didn’t make an appearance.