Ex-Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips has already issued come-and-get-me plea to Newcastle United

Newcastle United can take solace from Kalvin Phillips’ comments about his Manchester City future during the recent international break.

It is widely reported that the England international may be seeking pastures new in the January transfer window. Phillips joined City from Leeds United for around £42million less than two years ago but has struggled for minutes under Pep Guardiola.

Astonishingly, Phillips - England’s Player of the Year in 2021 - is yet to start a Premier League game all season. A host of top-flight clubs are reportedly eyeing up a move for the 28-year-old as he aims to keep his Three Lions place for this summer’s Euros.

Newcastle World understands Toon chiefs have Phillips on their hit list as they aim to patch up an injury-stricken squad. Joe Willock has spent most of the campaign on the treatment table while summer arrival Sandro Tonali is banned for breaching betting regulations.

Man City are demanding a hefty loan fee as well as an obligation-to-buy clause but Newcastle are willing to negotiate. The Magpies should also take note of Phillips’ comments three months ago when, on international duty, he outlined his desire for more first-team football.

"I know that I need to be playing games and competing every weekend,” Phillips told reporters. “I'm going to have to make a decision on (my future) over the next few months. Gareth just says that for me to keep my spot I have to be playing games. That's what I want to do. I have agreed with Gareth on that.

"I want to play football and want to play as much as possible. Over the last year and a half I haven't been able to do that due to injuries and (other factors). It's something I am going to have to think about. Hopefully my chance does come but if it doesn't then I will have to make other decisions as well."