are looking for reinforcements in January and outcast has emerged as one of their top targets, according to reports.
The Red Devils are going through a torrid time this season, with a 3-0 defeat at home to Bournemouth on Saturday the latest low in a difficult period for .
They host Bayern Munich on Tuesday with their Champions League fate on the line, needing a win to have any chance of progressing to the knockout stages, so it could either be a glorious night for them or another disappointing outing.
Either way Manchester United are looking to add to their ranks in January and reporting that Ten Hag is a big fan of Phillips.
The England midfielder has struggled for game time since joining Manchester City from Leeds in 2022, making just two Premier League starts since then.
He has remained favoured by England boss Gareth Southgate, but there is no guarantee that he will remain so going into Euro 2024 if he continues not to play regularly.
Phillips has made just four Premier League appearances this season, all of which have come from the bench.
A loan move in January looks likely and a permanent switch in the summer is very probable, with United keen to be the ones to benefit.
Guardiola openly admitted earlier this week that he struggles to see how Phillips fits into his team, but praised his character and work ethic.
‘I don’t know what’s going to happen. I feel so sorry for my decision for him. I’ve said that many times,’ said the City boss of his out-of-favour midfielder. ‘He doesn’t deserve what has happened to him and I’m so sorry.
‘The only thing I can say about him is I am asking for good personalities and characters and he is a perfect example. And after that I have to give him something and I didn’t do that.
‘It’s just because I visualise some things and visualise the team and things – and I struggle to see him.
‘I’m not very pleased [with myself] and I am so sorry for him. I will not say that [to him] because it is a business and I have to be a professional. But if one guy behaves [poorly], I don’t care. But the way he behaves with the team-mates and everyone, I care. So that’s why hopefully it can turn around.
‘And I’ve said many times, if it comes to January and he stays, I’m more than pleased because he trains really good and he’s a lovely guy and character.’
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