Kalvin Phillips time at Manchester City has not gone anywhere close to how he imagined when he signed from Leeds United a few seasons ago.
Given the big money transfer, many expected him to get plenty of playing time even if with Rodri the undisputed starter at the heart of midfield. But the 28-year-old hasn't played much at all even when Rodri has been absent.
Pep Guardiola has opted for different options including converting center-back John Stones into a midfielder.
Therefore, it does not come as a shock that Phillips is looking for a move away in order to get more playing time and put himself in the conversation for English selection for the upcoming Euros.
Phillips has been linked with a number of teams and according to The Telegraph's Matt Law, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona are among the potential suitors.
Kalvin Phillips future set to be decided next week - with Manchester City fielding interest from at least six clubs including Barca, Atletico Madrid, Juve, Crystal Palace, West Ham and Newcastle United. Phillips requires guarantee over playing time.https://t.co/Fsxq8F2JKl
— Matt Law (@Matt_Law_DT) January 17, 2024
Barcelona's campaign hasn't gone how they envisioned and are coming off a humiliating defeat to Real Madrid over the weekend in the final of the Spanish Super Cup. One of the reasons mentioned as to why the drop in level defensively, the departure of Sergio Busquets is often cited.
Oriol Romeu was signed from Girona as a stop gap given they were unable to sign the likes of Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi or Bayern Munich's Joshua Kimmich. Romeu started the season well but poor performance upon poor performance has caused Xavi Hernandez to lose faith in him.
Whether or not Phillips would represent an improvement remains to be seen or whether Barcelona would have enough room on the wage bill to incorporate a loan move.
Furthermore, Barcelona would have to battle the aforementioned Atletico Madrid as well as Juventus and other Premier League heavyweights including Crystal Palace, West Ham and Newcastle United.
"What we could then of course offer is the chance to play regular football in the Premier League in the build-up to what will be a very important summer for England and for him," said Palace manager Roy Hodgson.
For Barcelona to even consider a move, Manchester City would need to be willing to pay a brunt of Philipps wages. Then, as mentioned, is Phillips needing to adapt rather quickly under a manager in Xavi who is currently under the microscope.