Outgoing Liverpool goalkeeper coach John Achterberg has hinted that defender Nat Phillips will leave Anfield this summer. Achterberg is one of several members of Jürgen Klopp’s backroom team to depart at the end of the season.
Achterberg spent 14 years at Anfield but has now decided to move on. He is set to reunite with Steven Gerrard in Saudi Arabia and was involved in the post-match presentation following Sunday’s victory over Wolves.
Phillips was also present at the match despite spending the season out on loan. The defender was initially with Celtic but struggled for regular opportunities before joining Cardiff in January.
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His performances in the Championship were impressive and he has not ruled out a permanent switch when the transfer window opens. “I had a brief conversation with the loan manager at Liverpool,” he told the BBC last month, before Arne Slot’s arrival was confirmed.
“There is so much going on at the club. There’s a lot of change going on at Liverpool so there’s a lot up in the air there. There is a lot to sort out. Once things start to unfold, I’ll be able to build a bit more of a picture of what I see my plan for the future is.”
Phillips has since taken to social media to pay tribute to Klopp, writing: “Thank you Boss, for showing belief in me, and for giving me the opportunity and privilege to represent Liverpool. I’ll be forever grateful for the experiences I’ve had and the moments we have shared together.”
Achterberg was one of several Liverpool figures to like and comment on the post, with his reply hinting at a transfer. He wrote: “You are a good defender Nat! Good luck in your next move.”
Phillips has two years remaining on his contract so Liverpool would still be able to command a fee for the 27-year-old. Leeds is believed to be interested, along with Cardiff, but is yet to confirm which division it will be playing in next season.
Liverpool.com says: The time is right for Phillips to move on and secure a permanent transfer. He has been out on loan in recent years but needs to be settled somewhere at this stage of his career. It is unlikely he will be part of Arne Slot’s plans and it appears he is already set on a summer switch.