Although Phillips, who is presently playing for Manchester City in the US, has been strongly linked to the Toffees to the…

Everton’s pursuit of 20-year-old midfielder Habib Diarra may open the door for Aston Villa to sign Kalvin Phillips.

The Toffees have been widely connected with a move for Phillips, who is presently in the United States with Manchester City, but the signing of Diarra, as revealed by The Athletic, should put that speculation to rest. As a result, Villa would most certainly take the lead in their future pursuit of Phillips. According to The Athletic, Sean Dyche’s side is still interested in the City player, but a loan deal – with only one loan slot available – is more plausible.

Phillips struggled last season after being loaned to West Ham United, appearing in only eight Premier League games. As a result, he was left out of Gareth Southgate’s plans for the UEFA Euro 2024, despite previously being a key member of his squad.

Villa have been active in the transfer window, signing eight players as they prepare to participate in four competitions this season – the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup – and a player with Phillips’ experience would undoubtedly strengthen an already strong side.

Earlier this week, Manchester Evening News reported that Villa had submitted a loan offer rather than a permanent deal as money raised from the sale of midfielder Douglas Luiz – who signed for Juventus – was spent when securing the transfer of Belgian midfielder Amadou Onana.

Phillips played 90 minutes in City’s draw with Barcelona in Orlando on Thursday and has had a prominent role in the Cityzens’ pre-season preparations. Phillips also played in the two previous friendlies – against Milan and Celtic – causing Guardiola to speak out on the current situation, he said: “Kalvin I don’t know what is going to happen with his situation. He was really good for the problems we had. I know Kalvin when he gets the ball and can see all the pitch in front of him he’s a really good player. When he has the small spaces there are more problems.”

Phillips played as a makeshift defender against Barca, with the City boss praising his efforts: “He makes an incredible effort with his position. He was confident with the ball and helps us a lot. I’m really pleased with his performance.”