Smith Rowe Phillips Nusa Onana and more

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I’ve had some questions about Kalvin Phillips and Barcelona in recent days, but from what I understand Barca have never contacted Manchester City for Kalvin Phillips. Things can change quickly, especially towards the end of January, but as of today there are no negotiations and it’s not something close or concrete.

As previously reported, it’s not a cheap loan for Phillips – this is why Juventus decided to leave the conversations as they felt it was too expensive, and this is also why English clubs like Newcastle are not so convinced about the deal. Phillips is appreciated, but there is a loan fee and salary coverage, so it’s an expensive deal. Newcastle are also one of multiple clubs appreciating Everton’s Amadou Onana, but he’s very expensive and not an easy target. Financial Fair Play limitations make it very difficult for Newcastle, so let’s see what happens in the summer.

Keep an eye on West Ham, though, as they keep pushing on that deal and they keep hoping Phillips will decide soon, but it’s not easy.

Staying with West Ham, Arsenal said no to their approach over a loan move for Emile Smith Rowe. West Ham had concrete contacts on Thursday, and then on Friday they made a proposal for a loan deal for Smith Rowe, but Arsenal said no as it made no sense – perhaps a big offer could make a difference for Financial Fair Play, but not a loan. They are also more than happy to keep Smith Rowe at the club because Mikel Arteta is very happy with him and he’s convinced the potential is there.

Smith Rowe is also very happy at Arsenal, so although West Ham tried, it doesn’t look like this one is happening. It’s also important to note that David Moyes has said the truth and confirmed what we always mentioned: West Ham need to sell if they want to bring in new players. Said Benrahma has to go, for example. So Arsenal won’t accept loan proposals for Smith-Rowe.

West Ham will also have alternatives for sure, Steven Bergwijn is still appreciated but there are more players on their list.

In terms of other players who could leave Arsenal, I’d keep it open for Cedric Soares and more players. Nothing is imminent at this stage but next week some movement could take place…