Newcastle United are reportedly confident that a loan deal can be finalised for Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips.
The England international is expected to leave the Citizens in the new year after failing to establish himself in Pep Guardiola's plans.
Phillips, who arrived from Leeds United in 2022, started just two Premier League games in his first season with the Citizens.
The 28-year-old has continued to find regular minutes hard to come by, having had to settle for 10 competitive appearances, including just two starting opportunities.
With Phillips hoping to secure his place in the England squad for Euro 2024, he is seemingly keen to seek fresh pastures in a bid to increase his game time.
A recent report claimed that Phillips had been made a priority target by Newcastle ahead of the January transfer window.
Italian giants Juventus have also been linked, amid speculation they have held talks with Man City over a potential move.
However, according to The Telegraph, Newcastle are optimistic about their chances of beating Juventus in the race to secure Phillips's signature.
With the Magpies currently dealing with concerns over Profit and Sustainability rules, they are pushing to bring Phillips in on a loan deal.
They are also hoping to reach an agreement in the opening stages of the transfer window, as they look to reinforce a squad that has been hampered by injuries.
Newcastle's desire for a new midfielder is also heightened by the fact that Sandro Tonali is currently serving a 10-month ban for breaching Italian betting regulations.
In addition to Juventus, Newcastle are also believed facing competition from the likes of Everton and Crystal Palace.
Phillips is expected to seek reassurances over playing time before he makes a final decision over his next destination.
Newcastle will hope that the 28-year-old chooses to complete the switch to the North-East, as they look to freshen up a squad that is currently experiencing a poor run of form.
Having lost four of their last five Premier League matches, the Magpies are currently sitting in eighth place and eight points adrift of the top four. body check tags ::
