are reportedly preparing to make a move for should he decide to leave in January.
Phillips only moved from to City last year in a deal worth upwards of £42million but the star has endured a torrid time at the Etihad.
Though he was part of the squad that won the treble last season, he would play just 21 times across all competitions, and since his move he has started just two Premier League games, the last of which was in May.
Though a lengthy shoulder injury and the sensational form of Rodri has played a big part in this, .
He has made just one start so far this season – in the Carabao Cup defeat at Newcastle – and was not even called into action in the last game against Arsenal despite Rodri being suspended.
With his reputation floundering and a place in the Three Lions squad for Euro 2024 at stake, Phillips may be inclined to seek pastures new if his game time and form do not improve.
Liverpool were shockingly linked with the 27-year-old toward the end of the summer, while Arsenal were recently, tentatively rumoured to have an interest in the player who was among the best in his position just a couple of years ago.
Now, according to via the , Newcastle have identified Phillips as a January transfer target, with Eddie Howe keen on improving his defensive midfield options.
The Magpies have invested heavily in that position already, signing Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali for a combined £90m, but both have actually played better in a more advanced role.
Furthermore, the club are sweating over the availability of Tonali with .
It remains to be seen whether City would sanction Phillips’ departure, not least to a club that can be considered a potential Premier League title rival.
After eight games, Newcastle are eighth in the table, five points off the Citizens and seven points off leaders Tottenham, with a home clash against Crystal Palace up next.
City meanwhile host Brighton on Saturday, but before that Phillips is expected to start England’s huge clash against Italy on Tuesday night, where victory for the Three Lions will book their spot at next summers Euros.
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