The Magpies are in the race for the Manchester City midfielder alongside a host of other clubs including West Ham United.
Now, according to i Sport, Newcastle have received a boost in pursuit of Phillips, namely that the player is keen on a switch to St James’ Park.
However, that’s about as good as it gets for the Magpies on that front, because the report adds that not much has changed club-side.
The Telegraph previously reported that City are asking for a loan fee of £7million in exchange for Phillips’ services until the end of the season, as well as his wages being paid in full.
This has seemingly put many clubs off moving for the 28-year-old, and now a situation has arisen where the player is apparently trying to convince his club to lower these demands.
In the meantime, Newcastle have apparently decided to look elsewhere, with Atalanta’s Ederson said to be a target.
Newcastle desperately need midfield reinforcements
Newcastle could certainly do with the £42million England international’s services in the second half of a season that promised so much but is sadly under-delivering.
The Magpies are currently suffering from a personnel crisis in midfield, exacerbated by an injury to Joelinton that may potentially require surgery.
In addition, Bruno Guimaraes is apparently carrying a hamstring injury which could make him a doubt for their FA Cup trip to Fulham on Saturday, as per i Sport.
With that in mind, Newcastle need reinforcements this month. And Phillips would be a talented, experienced and Premier League-proven addition.
At the same time, £7million is a huge expense for a player who’s not even on the books. Let’s see what happens in the next fortnight as clubs may start blinking.
