West Ham United 'open talks' over move for Newcastle United and Crystal Palace's £42m transfer target

West Ham United could be set to deliver a major blow to Newcastle United's hopes of securing a loan deal for Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips.

The former Leeds United star has been a long-term target of the Magpies and was reportedly under consideration for a move to St James Park prior to his £42m switch to City during the summer of 2022.

Despite arriving at the Etihad Stadium with high expectations, Phillips has struggled to make a serious impact with the treble winners and has been unable to secure a regular spot in Pep Guardiola’s side over the last 18 months. The 28-year-old has made just six starts for City over that time and one of those rare appearances in Guardiola's starting even came in a 1-0 defeat against Newcastle in a Carabao Cup tie earlier this season.

Speaking about Phillips' situation just weeks before the January transfer window opened for business, Guardiola admitted he was unsure of what may lie ahead of the midfielder after he was linked with a move away from the club.

He said: “I don't know what's going to happen.  I feel so sorry for my decision for him. I've said that many times.  He doesn't deserve what has happened to him and I'm so sorry.  The only thing I can say about him is I am asking for good personalities and characters and he is a perfect example. And after that I have to give him something and I didn't do that.

“It's just because I visualise some things and visualise the team and things - and I struggle to see him.  I'm not very pleased (with myself) and I am so sorry for him. I will not say that (to him) because it is a business and I have to be a professional.

“But if one guy behaves (poorly), I don't care. But the way he behaves with the team-mates and everyone, I care. So that's why hopefully it can turn around.  And I've said many times, if it comes to January and he stays, I'm more than pleased because he trains really good and he's a lovely guy and character.”

Sky Sports News have now reported Phillips could have moved a step closer to ending his frustration at City after West Ham United officially opened talks over a move for the midfielder - although the broadcaster stopped short of confirming if the talks were over a loan or permanent move.

The report stated discussions between the Hammers and the reigning Premier League champions are taking place and ‘centre on the conditions of a potential deal’.  The report also confirmed Newcastle and Crystal Palace have made contact with City and Atletico Madrid and Barcelona are also interested in the England international.