Manchester City expected to reduce Jack Grealish asking price as transfer exit nears | OneFootball

Jack Grealish’s exit from Manchester City – on either a permanent or loan agreement – is only likely to come deeper into the ongoing summer window, according to reports.

Since joining Manchester City in the summer of 2021, Jack Grealish’s time at the Etihad Stadium has been a mixture of promise and frustration from the viewpoint of both the player himself and supporters.

Initially heralded as a marquee signing in large part due to his £100 million price tag, Grealish’s impact has been somewhat limited by injuries, inconsistent form, and fierce competition in Pep Guardiola’s midfield and attacking setups.

Despite flashes of brilliance, the England international has struggled to consistently nail down a starting role under Guardiola, especially with the arrival of other high-profile midfielders and forwards during his time with the club.

This situation has prompted much speculation about his future, and Manchester City’s evolving tactical setup and need for squad balance means that Grealish is increasingly viewed as surplus to requirements ahead of the new campaign.

As a result, clubs across Europe have kept a keen eye on his availability, though his comparatively high wages and City’s valuation have been hurdles to any swift transfer. Grealish remains a player with undeniable talent, but finding a suitor willing to meet Manchester City’s terms has been a slow process.

According to the information of Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, Jack Grealish’s permanent or temporary exit from Manchester City is not likely to be confirmed until late in the ongoing summer transfer window.

It is claimed that interested parties will now wait until later on in the transfer window before making their move for the England international, with Manchester City expected to lower their asking price for the forward.

As for the nature of a move, it is reported that Grealish is currently more likely to leave the Etihad Stadium on loan due to his high wages at City, which are currently deterring some clubs from pursuing a permanent agreement.

Looking ahead, the delay in a decision could be a strategic move by City to maximise their return on Grealish, particularly as the window enters its busiest period. Reducing the asking price may encourage more clubs to act, while a loan would allow City to retain some control over his future, with the option of recalling or negotiating a sale next summer.

Potential destinations for Grealish remain the subject of much speculation. Clubs in the Premier League with strong attacking needs, as well as teams in Serie A, are reportedly monitoring his situation closely.

A loan move would also give Jack Grealish a chance to rebuild his reputation and confidence, something that has eluded him at times since his big-money move, in the build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Meanwhile, City continue to strengthen their squad with new signings, and Grealish’s departure would free up significant wage budget and squad space, enabling Pep Guardiola to shape the team according to his preferred style.