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sportsmata.com > Football > From Etihad to East London: Will Phillips Thrive at West Ham?

From Etihad to East London: Will Phillips Thrive at West Ham?

West Ham have landed a major coup, securing England midfielder Kalvin Phillips on loan from Manchester City for the remainder of the season.

Talks wrapped up on Tuesday, with Phillips himself eager to make the move to London Stadium.

While a permanent buy option remains on the table, the Hammers will shoulder his hefty £160,000-a-week wages for now.

David Moyes has long admired Phillips, and his arrival addresses a pressing need for midfield solidity.

The 28-year-old has seen his playing time severely limited at City, managing just 89 Premier League minutes all season. 

Eager to secure his spot in England’s Euro 2024 squad, a loan move with regular playing time was crucial.

Despite struggling to crack Pep Guardiola’s starting XI, even in Rodri’s absence, City paid Leeds a hefty £45 million for Phillips back in 2022.

West Ham beat out competition from Newcastle, who balked at City’s loan terms, and Crystal Palace, where Roy Hodgson openly courted the midfielder. 

This loan deal adds significant firepower to a Hammers side already flying high in sixth place in the Premier League and Europa League group winners.

Phillips’ arrival promises to strengthen their midfield and bolster their push for European glory.