Abdulhafiz TeslimJack Grealish is still being targeted by Everton ahead of next season, but the imminent arrival of Enzo Maresca at Manchester City may have created some uncertainty around a permanent move.
The Toffees are hopeful of bringing the Man City loanee back to Hill Dickinson this summer, but they want to make the move permanent.
After signing Grealish on loan last summer, a £50 million buy option was included in the agreement. However, David Moyes has since confirmed that Everton will not trigger that clause.
Manchester City are believed to understand Everton’s position and could now be willing to negotiate a reduced fee of around £20 million for the 30-year-old instead.
However, Everton have been handed a potential twist in their pursuit, as Maresca’s expected arrival at City could give Grealish another opportunity to impress. Still, the winger’s latest social media post appears to suggest otherwise.
What did Jack Grealish post that could calm Everton nerves?
Recent reports have suggested that Grealish will be involved in Manchester City’s pre-season under Maresca, with several out-of-favour players expected to receive a fresh chance to prove themselves.
However, that does not necessarily increase his chances of staying at the Etihad Stadium, as regular game time is likely to be his main priority.
Can Grealish realistically expect to start week in, week out under Maresca, especially with players such as Jérémy Doku, Antoine Semenyo, and any further summer signings competing for places?
Maresca is all but confirmed to replace Pep Guardiola at City, but Grealish’s latest Instagram post suggests that a return to Hill Dickinson is still very much possible.
The England international shared a montage of his best moments with the Blues this season, alongside a message admitting that he cannot wait to return to action.
At this stage of his career, Grealish is experienced enough to know that consistent playing time at Manchester City is far from guaranteed. Unless another major opportunity arises, Everton could represent the most natural next step for him.
Everton must also sign a backup option for Grealish
If this season taught David Moyes and Everton’s recruitment team anything, it is that squad depth is just as important as the quality of the starting eleven.
Everton were left scrambling during the winter transfer window after Grealish’s season was cut short by injury. The club eventually signed Tyrique George on loan, with a reported option to buy for an eight-figure fee.
Given how highly rated the Chelsea winger is, it speaks volumes that Everton now appear unlikely to trigger that option.
Therefore, if Grealish does return this summer, Everton must ensure they also bring in another attacking option as cover in case injury problems arise again.
Jamie Leweling and Esmir Bajraktarevic have both been heavily linked with Everton in recent weeks, and either player could provide excellent rotational depth if Grealish completes his desired return to the Blues.
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Abdulhafiz Teslim
