Kalvin Phillips’ loan transfer to Juventus at risk of collapsing due to major sticking point as Prem rivals set to swoop

JUVENTUS hope to persuade Manchester City to carry on paying most of Kalvin Phillips’ wages if he joins them next month.

And that could prove to be a sticking point for a move to Italy for the England midfielder.

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Kalvin Phillips is wanted by Italian giants Juventus[/caption]

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But the Old Lady want City to pay the England midfielder’s wages[/caption]

The Three Lions favourite is looking for a loan move in the New Year to keep his dreams of playing in Euro 2024 alive.

A move to join the Serie A title chasers is something that appeals to the former Leeds man.

Juve are currently at the head of the queue as they are in the market for a new midfielder during the January window.

However, they are not keen on paying the whole of the 28-year-old’s wages – which are believed to be around £150,000 per week – outright.

Bayern Munich have also been linked with Phillips and did some business with the treble winners last January when Joao Cancelo moved to Germany.

Meanwhile, Newcastle are also interested as Eddie Howe looks to bolster his injury-hit squad for the second half of the season.

However, City may take some convincing to strengthen one of their domestic rivals at a key point of the season.

Phillips is in contention to start in midfield for City’s trip to Aston Villa this evening due to an injury to star midfielder Rodri.

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Pep Guardiola has revealed Kalvin Phillips could start against Aston Villa tonight[/caption]

When sked if Rodri’s absence is an opportunity for Phillips, City boss Guardiola said: “Yes, it is.”

He added: “I said he has a chance [of starting].

“We have to see in training this afternoon [if he will start the game] and see how the players are and feel. A decision will be made tomorrow.”

“We will find the best solution to compete against Aston Villa.”

Phillips’ efforts in training during his hiatus from the first team have impressed Guardiola, who said: “[They have been] exceptional.

“I don’t have any bad comments, as I have said many times.”