Man United unlikely to complete shock move for rival’s midfielder

Manchester United were knocked out of the Champions League after a 1-0 defeat by Bayern Munich on Tuesday evening. 

A run of poor results in Europe had left United bottom of Group A heading into the final round of group stage fixtures, meaning that Erik ten Hag’s side would not only need to beat Bayern, but would also have to hope that FC Copenhagen drew with Galatasaray.

Despite creating chances at Old Trafford, Kingsley Coman’s second-half strike earned the German champions victory and, in doing so, knocked United not only out of the Champions League but also out of Europe entirely, with Turkish side Galatasaray dropping into the Europa League courtesy of a third-placed finish.

The result is yet another blow for Ten Hag, who is enduring a difficult second season in charge of the Manchester outfit.

Now, it has been reported that United are unlikely to complete a move for a Premier League midfielder.

The Red Devils have been linked with a sensational move for Manchester City star Kalvin Phillips in recent days, but Football Insider claims that the player is unlikely to make the switch across Manchester.

Phillips is unlikely to make the move across Manchester to Old Trafford

Phillips, 28, joined City from boyhood club Leeds United in the summer of 2022 but has since endured a frustrating spell at The Etihad.

The England international has made just 29 appearances for the Citizens across all competitions since his £45 million move from Elland Road last year.

City boss Pep Guardiola recently admitted that he is ‘so sorry’ for Phillips’ lack of action, with the midfielder having been an unused substitute during City’s 2-1 win over Luton Town on Sunday afternoon.

Phillips has been heavily linked with a move away from The Etihad in recent months, with several clubs both in the Premier League and overseas having been linked with a move for the player.

It is claimed that a move to Old Trafford would be a ‘big surprise’, but Phillips is expected to depart City when the transfer window reopens in January.

The player himself is likely to be keen on the idea of leaving City in search of more regular first team football, especially with a place in the England squad for Euro 2024 next year at stake.