DON DEAL: Everton has signed another midfield player with £18.5 million from

The 20-year-old midfielder Habib Diarra is being pursued by Everton, which may create an opportunity for Aston Villa to sign Kalvin Phillips.

The Toffees have been strongly connected to a deal for Phillips, who is now with Manchester City in the US, but The Athletic’s story of Diarra’s acquisition may put any rumors to rest. Villa would therefore probably take the lead in their prospective pursuit of Phillips. According to a report by The Athletic, Sean Dyche’s team is still interested in the City player, but since they only have one loan slot open, a loan agreement would be the better choice.

After being loaned to West Ham United last season, Phillips never really got going and only made eight Premier League appearances for the Hammers. Consequently, he was not awarded a spot at UEFA Euro 2024, despite having been a key player in Gareth Southgate’s preparations for previous tournaments.

As they get ready to compete in the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup this season, Villa has been active in the transfer market, adding eight players. A player with Phillips’ experience would undoubtedly strengthen an already formidable group.

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.”