3 possible destinations for Nathaniel Phillips this summer

#2 Newcastle United

Newcastle United are currently in the market for a new central defender

Defensive instability was one of Newcastle United's biggest concerns during the 2020-21 Premier League season. The Magpies conceded 62 goals this past season, the fifth-worst defensive record in the English top-division last campaign.

They were heavily linked with Celtic's Kristoffer Ajer earlier this transfer window but the Norway international decided to join newly-promoted Brentford FC. The Northumberland-based club are currently monitoring other options, with Phillips among the top names on that list.

🎖· Nat Phillips is available for around £12m to £15m. There have been plenty of enquiries but no firm offers. Burnley, Brighton, Newcastle and Southampton have all been in contact.Source: @TheAthleticUK Journalist: @JamesPearceLFC pic.twitter.com/8M1tCC8bMp

— LFC Transfer Room (@LFCTransferRoom) August 7, 2021

Phillips' style of play should tune in well with Steve Bruce's tactical philosophy, who organizes to play with a low defensive line. The Magpies hugely rely on set-pieces to score goals and Phillips' aerial abilities could play a huge role in that department as well.

However, the Magpies are currently operating on a tight budget and whether they can match the Reds' valuation for the defender remains to be seen.

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#1 Brighton and Hove Albion

Ben White left Brighton to join Arsenal for £50 million last month

Brighton and Hove Albion are another Premier League side to have been linked with Phillips in recent months. The Seagulls lost their star man Ben White to Arsenal last month and are currently in the market for a central defender.

Known for his aerial ability, strength and ball-playing qualities, Phillips will fit in perfectly at Brighton, with Graham Potter preferring to build his team from the back. The 24-year old defender averaged 5.6 aerial duels and 65.7 passes per game last season.

BREAKING: Brighton are planning a £15m move for Liverpool’s Nat Phillips.The Seagulls want the 24-year-old to replace Arsenal-bound Ben White.- talkSPORT understands📻 Listen → https://t.co/VJgUHnqdM1 pic.twitter.com/U1PyFtW95j

— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) July 19, 2021

However, the Bolton-born defender will not be short of suitors and the Seagulls have a battle on their hands to snap him up.