Pep Guardiola will consider a move to replace Kalvin Phillips if the England midfielder leaves Manchester City in January.
Phillips has been heavily linked with a move away from the Etihad Stadium following a demanding spell with the Premier League champions.
In the 18 months since his move from Leeds, the 28-year-old has failed to break into Guardiola's starting lineup.
And, while Guardiola insisted on Friday that he was not considering the January transfer market, that could change if a possible Phillips transfer leaves him short of numbers in midfield.
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"Right now, I have nothing on my mind." "It depends on whether they leave or not," Guardiola told reporters ahead of Saturday's match against Crystal Palace.
"Some players stay, while others leave." It depends on the squad, on young players, and whether you can rely on them in certain situations."
Last week, Guardiola effectively confirmed Phillips' demise by saying, "I visualize the team and I struggle a little bit to see him (in it)."
Phillips did score for City in a rare start in midweek, netting a penalty in their 3-2 Champions League group stage win over Red Star Belgrade.
However, City had already qualified for the last 16, and Phillips will likely return to the bench this weekend.
"Kalvin is a player for us; I don't want to predict anything." "Everyone is aware of his situation," Guardiola said.
"It depends on whether or not it occurs." If this occurs, we will discuss it. The market in January is difficult. We still have incredible things to play for after deciding."
