Before signing Manchester City’s Jack Grealish, clubs must carefully consider several key factors that could impact the feasibility and success of any transfer, given his current situation and career trajectory. Grealish, a 29-year-old England international, has seen his role diminish at City, where he was signed for a British record £100m in 2021 but has struggled for form and minutes in recent seasons. Here’s what clubs need to evaluate:
First, his wage demands pose a significant hurdle. Grealish reportedly earns £300,000 per week, a figure few clubs globally can match without substantial financial restructuring. Even with a pay cut, only elite Premier League sides like Manchester United or Liverpool might afford him, though neither has shown interest. Clubs like Aston Villa, his boyhood team, face wage-to-revenue constraints (91% in 2024), making a permanent return unlikely unless City subsidizes his salary, which they’ve indicated willingness to do in loan scenarios.
Second, his recent performance record raises concerns. In the 2024/25 season, Grealish managed just one goal and two assists in 21 appearances, starting only eight, a stark decline from his 2022/23 treble-winning season (five goals, seven assists). His limited involvement—805 minutes across all competitions—reflects a drop in one-on-one duels (19 vs. 274 in 2022/23) and tackles (nine vs. 25), suggesting a loss of influence under Pep Guardiola. This raises questions about whether he can regain his swashbuckling form, critical for clubs seeking a dynamic winger or attacking midfielder.
Third, transfer logistics complicate matters. City prefers a permanent sale to offset the £100m investment but accepts they’ll recoup far less—estimates suggest £40m at best. A loan move, potentially with City covering part of his wages or a hefty loan fee, seems more realistic, as seen with players like Jadon Sancho. However, clubs like Tottenham (burdened by £330m in unpaid transfer fees) and Everton (financially stretched) struggle to meet these terms, while Barcelona’s interest has waned due to their fiscal issues.
Fourth, Grealish’s desire for regular football and Champions League exposure narrows options. Newcastle and Spurs, both in the Champions League, are linked, but Newcastle’s profit and sustainability rules limit their flexibility, and Spurs’ spending is constrained. A move to Italy (e.g., AC Milan, Napoli) or elsewhere in Europe is possible, though wage mismatches persist, with Napoli’s recent pursuit of Kevin De Bruyne on a free transfer indicating a different financial strategy.
Finally, his age and motivation are double-edged. At 29, Grealish has years left at the top level if he regains form, and the 2026 World Cup could incentivize a move for regular play. However, his apparent dip in professionalism post-treble raises doubts about commitment, a risk clubs must weigh against his proven quality from his Villa days.
In summary, clubs must navigate his high wages, declining stats, transfer complexities, league aspirations, and motivational factors, likely leaning toward a loan with financial support from City to make a deal viable.
