Bayern Munich have reportedly identified Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips as a potential summer transfer target.
The England international has just reached the end of his first year at the Etihad Stadium, one which ended with City winning the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League.
However, a combination of injuries, the form of other players and failing to suitably impress Pep Guardiola saw Phillips restricted to just four starts and 17 substitute outings in all competitions.
Amid suggestions that he may look to secure a transfer away from City, Phillips has already publicly insisted that he has no plans to move elsewhere.
Nevertheless, that will not stop speculation about his future, particularly when City are allegedly making a sustained effort to sign West Ham United's Declan Rice.
© Reuters
Regardless of whether Rice signs for City or Arsenal, the Hammers are said to be admirers of Phillips and will consider him as a potential alternative.
However, according to BILD, Bayern are monitoring any developments ahead of possibly providing competition for his signature.
The report suggests that the Bundesliga champions' relationship with Phillips's representatives could stand them in good stead if a bidding war ensues.
Head coach Thomas Tuchel is keen to rejig his squad over the coming months with central midfield one area of concern due to lack of depth in that part of the pitch.
© Reuters
Konrad Laimer's arrival from RB Leipzig will help improve matters on that front, but further competition is required for Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka and Ryan Gravenberch's, the latter's future very much in doubt.
Marcel Sabitzer is also back at the Allianz Arena after his loan spell with Manchester United, although it remains to be seen whether he will be kept in the squad or sold.
Bayern and City are expected to be in dialogue over the coming days with the German giants keen to wrap up a deal for defender Kyle Walker.
The two teams also did business with the loan deal for Joao Cancelo in January, and their working relationship may benefit all parties if Phillips feels that he is no further up the pecking order under Guardiola even with the departure of Ilkay Gundogan.
Darren Plant
