Scott Parker has told Dorset Live he is hopeful he can re-sign Nat Phillips from Liverpool – after an impressive stint since joining Bournemouth on loan in January. The loan does not include a permanent clause.
Phillips, 25, has helped Bournemouth continue to sit in the automatic promotion slots and with nine games left, the Cherries look good to go up. With Fulham on 80 after 38, Bournemouth are on 72 after 37 games.
Third-placed Huddersfield have played three more than Parker’s side, and are on 66 – six behind Bournemouth. Promotion looks likely and it is clear that Parker is already looking at building his side come the summer.
Phillips has played eight times in the league for Bournemouth, helping them to five wins. In that time, his side have kept two clean sheets – conceding just eight goals. Parker says he hopes to keep Phillips beyond the summer.
“Maybe, hopefully,” said Parker. “At this moment in time, that has not really been discussed. As always, whether with Nat or all the players who are on loan and in where they sit or don’t sit, it is really irrelevant.”
Parker on Phillips: Bournemouth move perfect for Liverpool defender
If they do as expected, and gain a place in the Premier League come May. Bournemouth look good to go up and Phillips has shown, during the 2020-21 season at Liverpool, that he is good enough to play in the top flight.
The Athletic reported that Liverpool want £15million for Phillips and such a fee would hardly put the Cherries off if promotion is secured. Given he is already on loan, it would be the ideal move for all parties involved.
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