Jose Enrique has backed Newcastle United to sign Nat Phillips before Monday’s transfer deadline day, as he posted on Instagram.
The former left-back thinks Phillips is a ‘great’ player, but he’s not going to get into Liverpool’s XI on a consistent basis, so moving to relegation-threatened Newcastle would be a ‘good deal’ for all parties.
On Merseyside, Phillips is behind the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Joel Matip, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez in the centre-back pecking order.
And it could be argued that if he were to move to St James’ Park, before Monday’s deadline, then he would walk into Eddie Howe’s backline.
There’s no doubt that the Magpies need depth and quality in that area because they are yet to bring in another centre-back this month.
And Enrique, who played for both Liverpool and Newcastle during his career, thinks Phillips would be the perfect fit.
“I think Nat Phillips if Newcastle want him,” said Enrique. “I think it would be a good deal for both clubs.
“I am not saying this because I am a former Newcastle player as well. I think it would be a good move for him and move to a club where he is going to play.
“They are trying to grow. They are trying to stay in the Premier League. But they are trying to achieve better goals in the future.
“If Liverpool can get good money for him, then I think it’s the best deal. I don’t see a future for Nat Phillips as a Liverpool player. Fighting for a starting position. I love him as a player because he is a great player.”
There is talk that Newcastle United have had a bid accepted for Brighton defender, Dan Burn, as reported by Sky Sports.
If that’s the case, then will the Magpies go in for another defender or will they be satisfied with Burn and Keiran Trippier this month.
At the end of the day, it’s about quality, not quantity, but it wouldn’t be a surprise if some Newcastle fans feel that another defender is needed on top of the possible Burn signing.
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