talkSPORT pundit admits he ‘would take’ Man City outcast at Arsenal in January

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Darren Bent believes that Manchester City outcast Kalvin Phillips would be an excellent addition to Arsenal’s squad.

Kalvin Phillips has been a peripheral figure at the Etihad Stadium since his £45 million arrival from Leeds United in the summer of 2022.

After almost 18 months at Manchester City, Phillips has managed just 30 appearances across all competitions, the majority of which have come from the bench.

As such, there is speculation that the 28-year-old midfielder will now look to seek out pastures new in the upcoming January transfer window, as suggested by BBC Sport.

At this stage in his career, Phillips needs to be playing regular football. Certainly, he needs to be sharp, in form, and full of confidence by the time EURO 2024 rolls around, as he is highly likely to be involved in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for that tournament. 

There are plenty of Premier League clubs that would be improved by Phillips’ arrival. Prior to joining Manchester City, he proved himself to be a top class operator in the Premier League. He is a tenacious, energetic presence in the middle of the park and a reliable passer of the ball.

The question has now been raised as to whether Mikel Arteta would be keen to bring the Pep Guardiola cast-off to Arsenal. Former striker Darren Bent, who supports the Gunners, would love to see Phillips at the Emirates Stadium.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Bent said, “I would take him at Arsenal.”

Should Arsenal make a move for Kalvin Phillips?

Arsenal are undoubtedly on the lookout out for midfield reinforcements. Aston Villa ace Douglas Luiz is currently thought to be Arteta’s “dream” target. However, the Villans are reluctant to part with the Brazilian.

What’s more, the north London club are heading into this winter window with a limited budget at their disposal. Phillips may well be available for a knockdown fee, or perhaps even on loan. Manchester City will know that they stand no chance of making a profit on the player. 

With Thomas Partey currently sidelined with injury, Phillips could step in and offer more cover for Declan Rice. Though, there is a good chance that Phillips would still struggle for regular starts at Arsenal. From the club’s perspective, though, bringing him in on loan would be solid business. 

Manchester City would surely be reluctant to let the 31-cap England international join Arsenal, though. The Gunners bought both Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko from the reigning champions in 2022. Both players helped to transform Arteta’s side into genuine title contenders. Arsenal are now a real threat to City’s crown, so Guardiola would surely not sanction any move that would strengthen them further.