Everton are reportedly in pole position to sign Manchester City’s Jack Grealish, with former Toffees CEO Keith Wyness claiming the club could lead the race for the 29-year-old midfielder this summer. Wyness, who worked with Grealish at Aston Villa from 2016-2018, revealed on Football Insider’s *Inside Track* podcast on May 12, 2025, that Grealish’s desire to stay in the northwest and his “homebody” nature make Everton an appealing destination. However, significant obstacles, including Grealish’s £300,000-a-week wages and Everton’s financial constraints, cast doubt on the feasibility of the deal, despite David Moyes’ ambition to mark the club’s Bramley-Moore Dock move with a marquee signing.
Grealish’s situation at Manchester City has fueled speculation. With only seven Premier League starts in 2024-25, three goals across 31 appearances, and no starts in City’s last four league matches, he reportedly seeks assurances from Pep Guardiola about his role. His £100 million transfer from Villa in 2021 hasn’t yielded the expected impact, with just 17 goals in 156 games and recent criticism for lackluster form, including a year-long goal drought until April 2025. Journalist David Ornstein, in an April 24, 2025, Athletic Q&A, suggested Everton as a “possibility,” citing their need for attacking creativity and Grealish’s northwest ties.
Everton’s interest aligns with Moyes’ squad overhaul, with Abdoulaye Doucoure and Jack Harrison potentially departing, opening spots for a versatile player like Grealish, who can play as a winger or attacking midfielder. Wyness believes Everton’s new stadium and the Friedkin Group’s backing could make the move attractive, but former scout Bryan King, speaking to Goodison News on April 28, dismissed the likelihood, suggesting Grealish’s agent is inflating rumors to generate interest amid City’s openness to offers. City’s willingness to sell, reported by Sky Sports on February 21, 2025, hinges on recouping funds, with a potential loan or permanent deal around £38-43 million.[]
The primary barrier is Grealish’s wages, which Everton’s cautious financial model—evident in their £20 million signing of Jesper Lindstrom, compared to Grealish—may not accommodate. Paul Gascoigne, commenting on May 10, 2025, noted Everton’s appeal as a “big club” but questioned their ability to match City’s financial pull. Competition from Serie A giants like Napoli, AC Milan, and Inter Milan, plus Premier League clubs like Tottenham and Newcastle, further complicates matters. Ultimately, while Everton dream of a statement signing, Grealish’s salary, City’s demands, and his fit in Moyes’ system make the deal a long shot.
