The truth behind Everton’s rumoured Jack Grealish transfer pursuit as Man City outcast seeks new home – revealed
Everton’s rumored interest in Manchester City’s Jack Grealish sparked excitement among fans in July 2025, but the speculation has been firmly debunked. Reports from Goal.com, citing a BBC source, confirm that Everton have stepped back from pursuing the 29-year-old midfielder, despite earlier links suggesting a potential loan move. The Toffees, alongside West Ham and Napoli, had emerged as surprise contenders for Grealish, who has struggled for consistent playing time at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola. However, financial constraints and strategic shifts have halted any serious negotiations.
The buzz began in mid-July when posts on X, including from transfer insiders like Ben Jacobs, reported Everton’s keen interest in securing Grealish on loan, contingent on Manchester City’s approval. West Ham also inquired, but the financial complexities of Grealish’s £300,000-per-week wages made a deal challenging for both clubs. By July 28, further posts indicated Everton were set to hold talks with City, but only for a loan, as a permanent transfer would require Grealish to significantly lower his salary—a condition deemed unlikely.
Grealish’s situation at Manchester City has fueled transfer talk. Since his £100 million move from Aston Villa in 2021, he has won three Premier League titles but started only 10 Premier League matches in the 2024-25 season, with just one goal and one assist. His versatility and flair remain undeniable, but limited minutes have led him to seek a new home to revive his career, especially with his England spot at risk. A Daily Telegraph report noted Grealish’s return to City for individual training, with interest from clubs like Aston Villa, West Ham, and Napoli, though no move has materialized.
Everton’s interest, initially reported by The Independent’s Miguel Delaney, aligned with their need for attacking creativity. The club also explored Lyon’s Malick Fofana, indicating a broader strategy to bolster their squad. However, Everton’s financial limitations, compounded by their ongoing takeover uncertainties, made absorbing Grealish’s wages unfeasible, even for a loan. The BBC’s clarification on July 30 confirmed Everton’s withdrawal, quashing hopes of seeing the former Villa star at Goodison Park.
For Grealish, the focus now shifts to other potential destinations. Napoli’s interest offers a chance to reunite with ex-City director Txiki Begiristain’s network, while a Villa return remains sentimental but unlikely. Everton fans, meanwhile, must look elsewhere for reinforcements as manager Sean Dyche navigates a challenging transfer window. The Grealish saga, though briefly tantalizing, underscores the practical hurdles of landing high-profile targets in today’s financially constrained Premier League landscape.