According to reports from the Metro, Aston Villa’s captain Jack Grealish has emerged as a transfer target for Manchester City for the next summer. City will likely look to sign five players in the summer and a box to box midfielder is on the club’s agenda. Reports add that Grealish is seriously considered now after his performances this season.
Guardiola had praised Grealish last year by saying he was incredible. The former Barcelona manager was impressed with the Englishman’s ability to take the ball in difficult situations and his ability to break the press. However, he maintained that the midfielder was too expensive.
It is being said that Guardiola would be handed a significant budget this summer as the club will look to replace the likes of David Silva, Fernandinho and Sergio Aguero.
Competiton from the derby rivals
Manchester United are also said to be interested in Grealish. With the Red Devils, Grealish will likely have a much better chance of starting regularly. Whereas at the Etihad, the Englishman will face stern competition for places. However, City would allow Grealish to play in Europe’s elite competition and a chance to win trophies as well.
Will Grealish be a good signing?
The 24-year-old has been the talismanic man for Villa this season. The midfielder already has eight goals and six assists this season while playing for a Villa side who are fighting a relegation battle. Previously seen only as an attacking midfielder, Grealish has proved his worth on the left flank as well this season.
Grealish could come to City and play in David Silva’s role. The Englishman might not have the vision of the Spaniard yet, but the 24-year-old is a smart operator in the final third, and he can carry the ball well. He uses his body well to protect the ball and Grealish also has an eye for a goal as he scores a fair few goals from in and around the penalty box. However, Phil Foden is being seen as a natural successor to Silva, so we believe that City might not spend big on Grealish.
Guardiola already seems impressed with Grelaish’s ability to take the ball in tight areas, and he should fit into City’s possession style of football well. Grealish should also be tempted to play under a manager like Guardiola who has improved quite a few players in the last few years, most notably Raheem Sterling. If Villa goes down to the Championship by the end of the campaign, Grealish might have to finally part ways with them, and City would be an excellent destination for him.
