Leeds United transfer news: Man City tipped to launch Kalvin Phillips raid after contract update – Mills
Danny Mills has tipped Manchester City to launch moves to sign Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips or West Ham enforcer Declan Rice this summer.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former City defender insisted Pep Guardiola needs a “dynamic” replacement for the ageing Fernandinho.
As reported by Brazilian news outlet Torcedores on Thursday (24 February), City are planning to offer the 36-year-old a new contract.
His current contract expires this summer after penning an extension last year.
However, Mills suggested Cty need an “energetic” defensive midfielder to take his place.
He suggested Phillips and Rice would be prime candidates for Guardiola.
Asked if Man City should be targeting a defensive midfielder to replace Fernandinho, Mills told Football Insider’s Connor Whitley: “It’s not just as defensive midfielder. It’s the energetic, dynamic defensive midfield player.
“Kalvin Phillips, Declan Rice – we assume they’re going to Man United or Chelsea although, actually, City and Pep need or could do with a player like that.
“If you’ve got that athleticism, could Kalvin Phillips drop into that role alongside Rodri at times or instead of Rodri? Of course he could.
“Declan Rice could do the same. It’s that type of player that isn’t just a sitter. Isn’t a Hojbjerg-type player where you just sit and protect. There’s more to it.
“You get forward, can be a bit more adventurous as well.”
Both Phillips and Rice are contracted at their respective clubs until 2024.
However, the West Ham man does have a one-year optional extension clause the Irons can trigger.
Fernandinho has started six times in 13 Premier League appearances this season.
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