Manchester City sign Kalvin Phillips from Leeds United

Financial details of the deal were not disclosed but British media reported that the 26-year-old was signed in a deal worth 45 million pounds ($54.53 million) including add-ons.

“City have again proved to be the best team in the country with an amazing squad and a manager in Pep Guardiola who is rightly considered to be the finest in the world,” Phillips said in a statement.

“To be able to play under Pep and learn from him and his coaching staff as well as be part of such a fantastic squad is a prospect that I am incredibly excited about.”

Phillips joined Leeds’ academy at the age of 14 before making his senior debut in the 2014-15 season. He played more than 200 games for Leeds, scoring 14 goals.

The midfielder has earned 23 caps for England since making his debut in 2020 and featured at the European Championships last year, where coach Gareth Southgate’s team lost in the final to Italy in a penalty shootout.

He is City’s third signing of the close season window, after the arrival of striker Erling Haaland and goalkeeper Stefan Ortega.

Phillips will strengthen City’s midfield following the departure of midfielder Fernandinho, as manager Guardiola looks to add key players in their bid to retain the league title and continue their push for Champions League glory.

“His reading of the game, alongside his passing ability, energy and drive make him a formidable talent and he is a player who has a fantastic will to win,” City director of football Txiki Begiristain said.

“We feel he will be a superb addition to our squad and that he will complement our game perfectly.”

City, who face FA Cup holders Liverpool in the Community Shield on July 30, begin their title defence with a trip to West Ham United on Aug. 7.

REUTERS