Man Utd ‘planning to sign’ Man City player in ‘controversial’ transfer

Manchester United are reportedly targeting a player from Manchester City in a hugely controversial move.

With the January transfer window fast approaching, United are hoping to add more quality to their squad in a bid to climb back up the Premier League table.

It has been another underwhelming start to the season for Erik ten Hag as they currently sit sixth in the table after losing 3-0 to Bournemouth on Saturday afternoon.

Looking ahead to the transfer window, it has been claimed that United could try and sign a player from local rivals City.

According to The Sun, struggling midfielder Kalvin Phillips has become United’s top summer transfer target.

A source told the publication: “United are watching the situation with Phillips very carefully. He is likely to go out on loan in January, but he will then be looking for a permanent switch in the summer, and Ten Hag wants to be right at the front of the queue.

“He is a fan of the way Phillips plays, and thinks his style is perfectly suited to United and to the philosophy he is trying to instil in the group.

“Plus, the new investors want the club to focus on investing in and developing English players, and Phillips still remains one of the best English players in the Premier League. It wouldn’t be the first time a player has moved from City to United, but it’s always controversial.”

This week, City boss Pep Guardiola admitted that Phillips does not suit his plans.

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He said: “I don't know what's going to happen [in January]. I feel so sorry for my decision for him. I've said that many times. He doesn't deserve what has happened to him and I'm so sorry.

“The only thing I can say about him is I am asking for good personalities and characters and he is a perfect example. And after that I have to give him something and I didn't do that.”

Guardiola added: “It's just because I visualise some things and visualise the team and things - and I struggle to see him. I'm not very pleased [with myself] and I am so sorry for him. I will not say that [to him] because it is a business and I have to be a professional.

“But if one guy behaves [poorly], I don't care. But the way he behaves with the team-mates and everyone, I care. So that's why hopefully it can turn around. And I've said many times, if it comes to January and he stays, I'm more than pleased because he trains really good and he's a lovely guy and character.”