Liverpool defender explains transfer stance plus Newcastle United linked with Southampton and Arsenal men

Phillips, 24, made 17 Premier League appearances last season due to injuries in Liverpool’s backline, yet the return of Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip could limit his game time.

Newcastle, Burnley and Brighton are among the clubs who have been linked with a move for Phillips.

Speaking to the Liverpool Echo's Blood Red podcast, the defender said: "I don't think anyone anticipated me having this season or putting in the performances that I did do - whether they maybe thought I was going to do a job and then they could sell me on, maybe they are having second thoughts.

"I'm not sure [about my future] - I still need to have the conversation with them and see if there is a role for me there and what role they want me to play.

"It would depend on if there is a role for me at Liverpool and what that role would be then I would have to decide what is best for me off the back of that.

"I would love to carry on playing for the club but I've got to take into consideration what is best for my career and that will depend on what role Liverpool see that they do or don't have for me and that we'll go from there."

Magpies tracking Southampton and Arsenal men

Newcastle are also reportedly tracking Southampton midfielder Mario Lemina.

The 27-year-old has one year left on his contract at St Mary's after spending last season on loan at Fulham.

According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle want to sign Lemina and are still chasing a loan move for Arsenal defender William Saliba.

Matty Longstaff to leave on loan

In terms of outgoings, Newcastle plan to loan out Matty Longstaf this season.

The 21-year-old was a target for Italian club Udinese before he signed a new contract at St James’ Park last summer.

Newly-promoted Norwich as well as Championship clubs Middlesbrough and West Brom have all been credited with interest in Longstaff who made just five Premier League appearances last term.

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