Transfer News: Bournemouth approach Liverpool regarding a loan deal for Nat Phillips
According to Liverpool Echo, Bournemouth are keen to take Liverpool defender Nat Phillips on another loan move ahead of the 2022/23 season.
Phillips rose through the ranks at Anfield, playing a particularly key role during the 2020-21 season, when the Reds were inflicted with a defensive injury crisis. With players like Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, and Joel Matip on the sidelines, the onus was on the likes of Phillips to make a difference.
The 25-year-old played admirably alongside Rhys Williams at the heart of the Liverpool defence during the difficult period. The return of Liverpool’s defensive duo coupled with the summer arrival of Ibrahima Konate made Phillips the fifth choice centre-back in the Reds roster. He was eventually loaned out to Bournemouth last January, going on to impress at the Vitality Stadium.
The Cherries benefitted from the move as he was instrumental in their second-place finish in the Championship, behind Fulham. The Premier League bound side now want the 25-year-old to return to Vitality to help them fight for Premier League survival.
The initial loan agreement that saw Phillips given to Cherries did not contain an option to make it permanent. Both parties now have to go back to the negotiating table to work out fresh terms.
Sending Phillips back may be a smart decision for everyone concerned. He has Premier League experience with Liverpool, but he isn’t going to receive regular game time under Jurgen Klopp. It makes sense for him to go out on loan to keep playing in the Premier League.
As Phillips is behind Virgil Van Dijk, Joel Matip, Ibrahima Konate, and Joe Gomez in the Liverpool pecking order, the Reds might be better off loaning him as it would ensure extended game time and proper growth for the 25-year-old.
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While there has been no hint that a clause allowing the Cherries to sign Phillips on a permanent basis will be included, a loan transfer may be wise given Phillips’ inexperience.
He is yet to make 100 senior matches and has played in the Premier League just 17 times. A complete season in the Premier League would be beneficial to both parties, since it would allow Liverpool to assess Phillips’s ability as a Premier League player.
