‘It’s getting real’, ‘We’re getting him’ – Many fans react as Man City now ‘expected to pursue deal’ for perfect Fernandinho replacement in ‘coming weeks’

Manchester City fans have been reacting to a post on Twitter which relays a report that claims Pep Guardiola’s side are ‘expected to pursue’ a deal for Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips.

Guardiola is on the lookout for midfield replacements with Fernandinho leaving Manchester City this summer as his contract expires after nine years at the Etihad.

The 37-year-old said his goodbyes during Monday’s Premier League title parade after winning his 14th trophy with the Sky Blues.

With Fernandinho’s departure, City have set their sights on signing a new central midfielder. Whilst Rodri has been arguably one of the best holding midfielders across Europe for the past 12 months, City are in need of depth in the middle of the park.

According to Jack Gaughan of The Daily Mail, Manchester City have identified Phillips as their top target to replace Fernandinho, The 26-year-old has been identified as having the ‘perfect profile‘ for the position.

Jack Gaughan also shared the news to Twitter, claiming: “Man City expected to pursue deal for the England international Phillips over the coming weeks”.

There has also been reports of interest from United, as per the Manchester Evening News, but the Telegraph’s James Ducker who also reported on Man City’s interest in the Leeds star, claims Pep Guardiola’s side will look to beat the Red Devils to Kalvin Phillips’ signature this summer.

Moreover, a separate report from Pol Ballus of The Times has revealed subsequently that City are considering making a bid for Phillips, but will face stiff competition from the likes of Manchester United, West Ham, Arsenal and Aston Villa for the midfielder’s services.

The report was shared on Twitter by City Xtra and it attracted plenty of attention from the club’s supporters.

“It’s getting real.”
Credit: @mcfcdvd

“Elite tier sources. Great back up to Rodri.”
Credit: @ThomFish3r

“If Pep wants him, then it’s a no brainer…”
Credit: @__mfonobong

“We’re getting him. I take that but it could’ve been better”
Credit: @kayo_mcfc

“Phillips is someone who can do the defensive work Fernandinho did at his peak and it’s possible he gains ball progression skills working with Pep..”
Credit: @HalfAgain

“Don’t think it’s a good move.”
Credit: @QMarkalova

“Pointless, Rodri is young and he’s defo not starting over him.”
Credit: @RDMCFC

“Our very own Douglas Luiz is a better bet.”
Credit: @khalidkarim

“Guys don’t judge too harshly! He’s a decent player. Could be a good signing..”
Credit: @SudiptaDash49

“So our academy players should just give up at this point. There’s no way people like James and lavia get game time ahead of gundo kalvin grealish”
Credit: @Cr7policeforce