The Independent has recently reported that Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is eager to seal a move for Aston Villa playmaker Jack Grealish. It is believed that Guardiola held discussions with Kevin De Bruyne over the Villans captain’s quality and has identified him as a top target for next summer’s transfer window (via The Independent).
Grealish’s Outstanding Form At Villa Park This Season
Grealish has made a mesmerising start to this campaign as he has been responsible for producing a handful of match-winning performances as a key component of Dean Smith’s attack. The three-time England international has found the back of the net on five occasions and secured six assists in nine matches for the West Midlands giants across various competitions.
The 25-year-old has been remarkably consistent with his offensive contributions for Villa as evidenced by his average of 2.9 shots, 2.6 key passes and 2.6 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Premier League this season. He has even interchanged possession relatively well with his teammates in the opposition half after completing 80.3% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Grealish has inspired his team towards picking up five victories in eight league matches thus far. The way things are going, the Villians won’t find themselves in relegation trouble this season which is a sensational turnaround from the club considering how close they were to being demoted to the EFL Championship last season.
What Does The Villans Skipper Bring To The Table?
Grealish is a deceptively quick attacker who loves to make some driving runs towards the opponent’s penalty area. He can be a real bundle of energy down the left flank and has shown incredible maturity to score and create goals regularly in the Premier League over the past 18 months.
The Three Lions playmaker has a wide range of passes in his locker and can strike the ball with power and precision, which makes him a potent goal-threat from long range. Plus, he is a natural leader and can get the best out of his teammates on the field. Grealish is also highly versatile as he can operate on either wing or play down the middle as an attacking midfielder.
Why Smith Cannot Afford To Lose Grealish’s Services Next Summer
The Villans star is the complete package, so it is no wonder that a top manager like Guardiola is keen on acquiring his signature at the end of this campaign. However, Smith cannot afford to lose his best player as he has become an irreplaceable component of his squad. Grealish’s departure could leave the West Midlands vulnerable as they might not have the quality to keep themselves in the Premier League in the coming seasons.
The Birmingham-born talent knows the club from inside out having worked his way up their youth system over the past decade. Grealish is currently under contract at Villa Park until the summer of 2025, so Smith will be under no immediate pressure to sell him. Having said that, if Man City end up offering the Villans a substantial fee for their most prized asset, then they might have no choice but to cash in on him as it will be a win-win situation for everyone involved.
