Aston Villa are reportedly interested in signing midfielder Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City.

The defensive midfielder has barely featured for the defending champions since he left Leeds United in a $51m deal last summer.

And now understood to be offered the chance to escape his Etihad nightmare, the England international could find his long-term future lies working under Unai Emery at Aston Villa.

Interestingly, according to Football Insider, despite barely featuring for his club this season, Manchester City are keen to recoup as much of the $51m they paid Leeds as possible.

Since joining the Cityzens from Leeds nearly 12 months ago Phillips has failed to contribute to a single goal in 14 appearances, in all competitions.