Everton have reportedly approached Manchester City to inquire about the possibility of signing Jack Grealish on a season-long loan deal. The talks are in early stages and center around a temporary move, although Manchester City's preference is a permanent transfer.
Grealish's future at the Etihad Stadium appears uncertain after struggling to secure consistent playing time. He only made one Premier League start last season. The 29-year-old was also notably left out of City's squad for the recent Club World Cup. According to reports, Grealish and City manager Pep Guardiola came to a mutual agreement that the winger needed a break.
David Moyes, who returned as Everton's manager, is looking to bolster his squad after a 13th-placed finish last season. The club has already been active in the transfer market, completing the signing of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Chelsea for around £25 million. Other major signings include Charly Alcaraz, Thierno Barry, Mark Travers, and Adam Aznou. However, Moyes has stated that he wants "six more signings" before the new campaign begins. Everton recently moved into their new home, the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Grealish joined Manchester City from Aston Villa in 2021 for a reported £100 million, making him the most expensive English footballer in history at the time. While he has won three Premier League titles, including a treble in 2023, his role in the team has diminished. In 157 appearances for the Citizens, Grealish has 17 goals and 23 assists.
Sky Sports reports that Grealish is eager for more playing time as he aims to secure a place in the England squad for next summer's World Cup.
However, a significant hurdle in the potential loan deal is Grealish's wages, which are reportedly around £300,000 per week. Everton may find it difficult to cover the full amount, and negotiations between the two clubs will likely focus on how to share his salary. David Ornstein of The Athletic described the potential deal as "complicated".
Despite the challenges, Everton are keen to add creativity to their attack, and Grealish is seen as a player who could provide that.
Other clubs have also been linked with Grealish, including Aston Villa, West Ham United, and Tottenham Hotspur. Dean Smith, Grealish's former manager at Aston Villa and current manager of Charlotte FC in MLS, admitted he would love to be reunited with the player but believes Grealish has "unfinished business" in the Premier League. Serie A champions Napoli have also been mentioned as a possible destination.