Kalvin Phillips wants to stay at Manchester City despite interest from Everton.
Speaking to journalist Mike Minay, the midfielder revealed that he intends to fight for his place with the Premier League champions after a difficult first season.
Everton were one of a number of clubs targeting Phillips, with The Express reporting that they had made a last ditch attempt to sign him on loan on January transfer deadline day.
The 27-year-old has only made four starts since joining Man City from Leeds United for an initial £42 million last summer, however he is determined to prove himself next season.
Speaking to Minay, Phillips said: “My intention is to stay. We’ve just won the Treble, so there is no reason for me to leave… I cannot give it 12 months & say I am not playing so I am going to leave. With many players at City, it can take quite a while to cement yourself into the team.
“I spoke to quite a few of the players: Nathan Ake being one, Jack. They all said the first 12 months were the hardest of their City careers but after that it doesn’t become easy, but easier. I’m just going to go away for the off-season, enjoy myself and then come back fighting.
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“Just know how difficult it is to understand the way Pep wants to play and how quickly you need to adapt to play in his system. I am on the brink of almost getting it. Obviously there is a little bit of work in pre-season and hopefully be alright.”
Kalvin Phillips would be the perfect signing for Everton
Phillips’ comments will be a huge disappointment for Everton, who could have really done with a midfielder of his quality.
While the Toffees hadn’t really been linked with him since their January bid, Amadou Onana‘s potential exit could have returned their focus to the England international.
It hasn’t really worked out for him at City so far, however he clearly has bags of talent and continues to display that for the Three Lions.
While the midfielder has made his intentions clear, Everton should still keep an eye on his situation in case Pep Guardiola’s side decide to overrule his decision.