An update has emerged on Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish, regarding Manchester City's pursuit of his services...
What's the talk?
According to Football Insider, Manchester City are preparing to offer £90m to Aston Villa in an attempt to prize Jack Grealish away from the club this summer.
The report claims that Grealish has had his head turned by the Premier League champions, suggesting that he would be keen to complete a transfer if it becomes a realistic possibility.
City journalist for The Athletic, Sam Lee has also stated that a deal for Grealish could happen very quickly if there are no bumps along the road.
Fans will be livid
Aston Villa fans will be livid following this news. Whilst it remains to be seen whether or not the club will be willing to accept City's offer, the line about Grealish having his head turned is extremely worrying for Villa supporters as it shows a willingness from his side to make a move happen.
That is not to say that he will now hand in a transfer request and force a move, but he could have a word with the Villa owners and make it clear that he would like to be given the opportunity to explore a transfer. He has given so much to the club and deserves a good send-off if it does happen, but that would not take away from the fact that Dean Smith would be losing his talisman.
Grealish was directly involved in 16 Premier League goals in 24 starts last season, averaging a phenomenal WhoScored rating of 7.56. Ollie Watkins' score of 7.16 was the next highest in the team, showing how the Villa skipper was head and shoulders above the rest of the squad in terms of quality performances. This is why the fand will be devastated if his eagerness to arrive at The Etihad this summer leads to him leaving the club.
Back in 2019, Pep Guardiola lauded Grealish as an exceptional talent who is capable of creating chances and admitted that he was too expensive to join City.
"He’s incredible.
"A top player. I’m happy he [initially] stayed in the Championship to defend his club.
"He’s a talented player who always creates something.
"An exceptional player but too expensive for Manchester.”
This shows that Pep has had his eyes on the England international for some time, but that he has been unable to afford him in the past. Now, it appears as though City have the money and are ready to sanction a serious assault for Grealish's services.
Villa fans will be hoping that he stays with Smith's squad for at least another season, but this update is not good news for them.
AND in other news, Villa stance on "outstanding" £75k-p/w maestro emerges, Dean Smith will be furious...