Everton Plot Audacious Double Swoop For Two Premier League Icons: Is It The Right Decision? | OneFootball

A new report from Dean Jones say Everton are trying to change the price for Jack Grealish. This follows his season-ending foot injury. The current loan deal has a £50 million buy option, but Everton officials think that figure is too high.

They want to redo the deal because they believe the 30-year-old wants to stay on Merseyside for good. At the same time, the report mentions a possible move for Manchester City defender John Stones. The 31-year-old is in the final months of his contract at the Etihad. He could go back to his old club for free, provided the Toffees’ medical team is happy with his fitness record.

Everton Plot Double Manchester City Raid: Grealish Talks and Stones Reunion in Motion

This bold transfer plan puts manager David Moyes in a tough spot. Signing Grealish for good would definitely give the squad some top-tier creativity. Even so, his high pay and recent surgery mean the club must be careful with money.

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – JANUARY 18: Jack Grealish of Everton contends for the aerial ball with Youri Tielemans of Aston Villa during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Everton at Villa Park on January 18, 2026 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

The England international, who has real quality when fit, will unfortunately miss the 2026 World Cup. Paying £50 million for someone coming off a stress fracture just does not make sense. So, the club’s hierarchy must get the price down. It is the only move that makes sense.

On top of that, the idea of bringing back John Stones is interesting. The centre-back left Everton for £47.5 million ten years ago. Since then, he has won 15 major trophies. Sadly, a thigh problem has kept him out of the team since December.

Michael Keane is 33, and his contract is up this summer. Swapping him for Stones on a free transfer is a big gamble. Stones is younger but gets injured often. He is great on the ball, which could change how Everton play out from the back. Still, the fact that he has not played much lately is a big risk.

BRIGHTON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 31: John Stones of Manchester City during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester City at Amex Stadium on August 31, 2025 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Going after a cheaper Grealish is a smart move. However, giving Stones a big contract seems reckless. Fans might love the idea of a Stones reunion, but his fitness has really dropped off. Therefore, Everton should focus on getting Grealish for a lower fee to help their creative future. They should only look at Stones if it is a “pay-as-you-play” deal. That way, they would not get stuck with another injured defender.