Aston Villa Unlikely to Move for Manchester City Winger Jack Grealish
Aston Villa are not currently expected to open talks over a return for Jack Grealish, despite the winger’s long-standing connection to the club.
What we know
- Grealish came through Villa’s academy before joining Manchester City in 2021 for a British-record fee.
- He won three Premier League titles and the Champions League at City, including the 2023 treble, but struggled to consistently fit Pep Guardiola’s demands.
- City sanctioned a move to Everton, where Grealish showed flashes of his creative best before a foot injury ended his 2025-26 campaign.
- The 31-year-old is approaching the end of his contract and Everton could pursue a deal to keep him without paying a transfer fee.
- Villa would hold emotional appeal for the England international, who has 39 senior caps, but their playing style and financial position could make a reunion difficult.
Everton face decision on Grealish future
Everton are seen as a strong fit if Grealish can regain fitness and consistency. The club’s supporters have embraced him, while David Moyes is viewed as a manager capable of demanding more from the winger.
Grealish was below his level in the first half of Everton’s recent game against Hull, with his sharpness and direct running questioned, but improved markedly after the break. That response will strengthen the case for Everton to consider extending his stay.
The next step is likely to come once Grealish’s contract situation is resolved. Any permanent move would require a club to take on his full wages, with no expectation of Manchester City continuing to contribute to his salary.
