Former Premier League defender Alan Hutton has tipped Liverpool ace, Nat Phillips, to act as a long-term replacement at West Ham.
The 24-year-old has once again been linked with a move to the Hammers in recent days as David Moyes attempts to cover for the injured Angelo Ogbonna.
Phillips has reverted back to a watching brief this season having featured prominently last term for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
Speaking to Football Insider, Hutton suggested that the no-nonsense centre-back could also provide a longer-term option for the Irons.
Moyes’ transfer record has been brilliant since he’s been at the club. It’s a position I think they probably do need to strengthen. Craig Dawson as well, he’s obviously getting a little bit older now. They’re going to want to bring in reinforcements. I think this fits the bill – a young player who’s got that experience and big-game experience. He’s still got a lot to learn but I think under the likes of David Moyes you can learn as you go along. He’s that type of guy, he’s building something for the future. I think the West Ham team are very strong at the moment. There are a lot young players in there who are doing unbelievably well. I think Phillips would fit that bill. The price is great and for a guy so young, there’s a lot of room there for improvement. There could be a sell-on fee.
The 37-year-old went on to claim a January transfer ‘might suit all parties’ as the Bolton-born ace struggles for regular game time in Merseyside.
So far this term Phillips has made just three appearances across all competitions.
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Valued at £7.2million and under contract until 2025 (Transfermarkt), paying the mooted £12million fee for the Englishman would be a worthwhile expenditure.
Now 31 and 33 respectively, Moyes will no doubt have at least one eye on a possible successor to both Dawson and Ogbonna.
Strong aerially and a threat in both boxes, Phillips would be a like for like replacement that should please the Hammers’ faithful.
