Newcastle United linked with Nat Phillips transfer swoop | OneFootball

Despite managing to pick up their first three points of the season and keep a clean sheet in the process in their recent 1-0 win over Burnley at St. James’ Park, Newcastle United have had a problem with shipping goals in the Premier League this season, with 30 conceded in 15 games, more than any other side in the top flight.

With this in mind, it seems as though the Tyneside club could be eyeing up a potential player to come in and strengthen the side up at the back.

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Recently, it has been reported that Newcastle have got Liverpool defender Nat Phillips on their radar for a potential January transfer move.

Given how the centre-back has only made two senior appearances for the Merseyside club so far this season across all competitions, it’s safe to say that he has not been a crucial figure for the Reds.

Last season was a completely different story though with Phillips making 20 appearances for Liverpool across the Premier League and Champions League.

His performances in the Premier League last season earned him an overall performance rating of 7.29/10, making him Liverpool’s second-highest rated player of the campaign according to WhoScored, ahead of the likes of Thiago Alcantara, Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino, showing how capable he is of playing in the top flight.

Labelled as a “monster” on the pitch by Jurgen Klopp, Phillips also received praise from pundit Jamie Redknapp for his “unbelievable” performances in the league.

Taking all of this into account, Phillips could prove himself to be a vital player for Newcastle and their chances of dodging relegation if he can strengthen their spotty defence.

Given his lack of minutes at Liverpool this season, a move to Newcastle could be very appealing for Phillips if he would be guaranteed regular playing time with the Magpies.

Would you take Nat Phillips at Newcastle?

However, with the defender, who is currently earning a weekly wage of just over £64k-per-week according to Spotrac, having signed a new long-term deal at Liverpool over the summer, it could prove to be quite difficult to get him away from Anfield, especially if the club aren’t willing to let him leave on a permanent basis.

With the January transfer window on the horizon, Newcastle and Eddie Howe should definitely consider making a move to sign Phillips either on a loan or a permanent basis as he definitely has what it takes to improve the team at the back and potentially save them from relegation given his previous experience at Liverpool.