Sheffield United have completed the signing of Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips on a straight loan deal until the end of the 2025/26 season.
The 30-year-old England international arrived at Bramall Lane on Monday’s transfer deadline after a nightmare spell at the Etihad Stadium. Since his £45m move from Leeds United in 2022, Phillips has struggled to secure a spot in Pep Guardiola’s tactical setup, making just 32 appearances across nearly four seasons.
No Option to Buy for the Blades
According to club sources, the agreement is a dry loan with no option or obligation for Sheffield United to make the move permanent in the summer. With Phillips’ contract at City set to expire in June 2026, this move effectively marks the end of his career with the Premier League champions.
The deal was finalized late Monday evening after the midfielder successfully passed his medical. It is understood that Manchester City will continue to cover a significant portion of his wages to facilitate the move.
Can Phillips Revive His Career in the Championship?
This move marks Phillips’ third loan spell away from City, following underwhelming stints at West Ham United (2024) and Ipswich Town (2024/25).
The “Yorkshire Pirlo” returns to the Championship for the first time since leading Leeds United to promotion in 2020. Currently sitting 17th in the table, Sheffield United hope Phillips’ experience can stabilize a midfield that has struggled for consistency this term.
Potential Debut: Phillips has been registered in time and could feature as early as Tuesday night when the Blades host Oxford United at Bramall Lane.
James Horan is a football writer focused on the Premier League transfer market, covering confirmed signings, transfer rumors, and club strategies during the transfer windows.
