Transfer Centre

Philip Billing 'open to Bournemouth exit amid Valencia talk'

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 23 January 2023

Bournemouth midfielder Philip Billing reportedly holds an interest in joining Valencia before the end of the January transfer window.

Bournemouth reportedly face a fight to retain the services of midfielder Philip Billing.

Since moving to the Vitality Stadium in July 2019, the Dane has established himself as a key man for the Cherries, whether that be in the Premier League or Championship.

Billing has contributed 26 goals and 16 assists from 141 appearances in all competitions, while he has featured in all but one of Bournemouth's 20 top-flight games in 2022-23.

During those fixtures, the 26-year-old has chipped in with four strikes and one assist, and Bournemouth have little interest in parting ways with the midfielder.

Nevertheless, according to the Daily Mail, the South Coast outfit are not certain to retain his services in the long term.

Bournemouth's Philip Billing celebrates scoring against Leeds United on November 5, 2022 © Reuters

The report suggests that Billing is ready to entertain offers to end his time with Bournemouth before the end of the month.

Valencia are allegedly monitoring the situation and are interested in negotiating a deal with their Bournemouth counterparts.

That is despite a recent report claiming that the La Liga outfit were struggling to fund a move for Brentford's Sergi Canos which would be considerably cheaper than any transfer involving Billing.

When Billing departed Huddersfield Town for Bournemouth three-and-a-half years ago, he cost £15m, and there is little prospect of his current team entertaining bids lower than that fee in January.

Bournemouth manager Gary O'Neil on January 7, 2023 © Reuters

Nevertheless, it is suggested that Billing wishes to explore a switch to the Mestalla, and his contract situation will come into the equation.

Billing has less than 18 months remaining on his current terms, with it appearing increasingly likely that he will not pen a fresh deal.

From Bournemouth's perspective, however, they are unlikely to contemplate a sale without having a direct replacement lined up, particularly given their current position in the Premier League table.

As a result of Saturday's 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest, Bournemouth now occupy a spot in the relegation zone on goal difference.