FORMER Wanderers defender Nat Phillips has been linked with a move to Watford in the January transfer window.

Claudio Ranieri is keen to land Phillips as he looks to bolster the Hornets’ defence, according to Football Insider.

Liverpool reportedly value the defender at £12 million and are willing to listen to offers for the 24-year-old.

Phillips has made just four appearances for the Reds this season and previously said he would be interested in a move as he searched for regular playing time.

The Bolton-born defender came through the ranks at Wanderers before joining Liverpool’s youth set-up.

He broke into the first-team picture last season following an injury crisis, making 20 appearances for the Merseyside club.

Phillips featured against the Whites for Liverpool Under-21s in the Papa John’s Trophy back in October.

The defender has also been linked with a move to West Ham in the January window.

The Hammers only have two fit centre-backs, with Angelo Ogbonna and Kurt Zouma sidelined by injury.

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