Jack Grealish Keeping Options Open as Premier League and European Giants Circle for Summer Move
Jack Grealish is poised for a high-profile summer departure from Manchester City, with Everton, Newcastle United, and Napoli all exploring the possibility of landing the £100 million-rated playmaker in what could become one of the headline transfers of the window.
The 29-year-old England international, who is currently earning a reported £300,000 per week, endured a frustrating 2024/25 campaign under Pep Guardiola, and is now believed to be seeking a fresh start as he eyes a return to top form ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Despite having three years left on his contract, Grealish’s time at the Etihad appears to be drawing to a close. Interest is mounting, but the player is in no rush to make a decision, instead opting to wait and assess the landscape as he targets a club where regular football and tactical trust can reignite his career.
A source close to the player told GIVEMESPORT: “Jack will be keeping open his options until the last minute. He wants to see what’s on the table before making a decision that could make or break his World Cup dream.”
With Thomas Tuchel now at the helm of the England national team following Gareth Southgate’s exit post-Euro 2024, Grealish sees an opportunity to reclaim a regular international role. The German is said to admire the former Aston Villa captain, but club form will be critical.
“He knows Tuchel is a fan — and that he won’t be subject to the sometimes erratic behaviour shown towards him by Gareth Southgate,” the source added. “But Tuchel can’t pick him if he’s not playing regularly.”
Grealish has prioritised Champions League football as he weighs up his next move. That puts both Newcastle United and Napoli in strong contention, though neither option is straightforward.
At Newcastle, Grealish would face stiff competition for a place on the wing, with Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes both integral to Eddie Howe’s plans. However, it’s believed the England star could be utilised more centrally in a creative midfield role — a shift that could align with his natural ball-carrying ability and eye for a pass.
Napoli, meanwhile, offer a different kind of appeal. A move to Serie A would give Grealish the chance to test himself abroad, but the prospect of relocating with a young family could complicate matters.
Closer to home, Everton have emerged as a dark horse in the race. The Toffees are on the cusp of moving into their new Hill Dickinson Stadium and want a marquee figure to front a new era under returning boss David Moyes.
“Everton remains an interesting prospect,” the insider continued. “Moyes would give Jack the perfect platform to re-discover his talents and rebuild his confidence after the way things soured under Pep.”
Still, the financials may prove a sticking point. Matching Grealish’s salary without the boost of Champions League revenue could be a stretch for Everton, despite their ambition.
For now, Grealish is following a personalised fitness programme in preparation for pre-season. The decision may yet come down to the final weeks of the window — but wherever he lands, it’s clear the England man is determined to get back to his best.