The short version
- Jack Grealish has indicated a preference to return to Everton if Manchester City allow him to leave before the transfer deadline.
- Manchester City are reportedly interested in signing Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye, who has rejected contract extensions and seeks Champions League football.
- Everton manager David Moyes is reluctant to sell Ndiaye but may accept a significant fee, while also considering a loan deal for young defender Stephen Mfuni.
Jack Grealish’s future at Manchester City appears increasingly uncertain as the transfer window nears its conclusion. Sources indicate that the English winger would prefer to return to Everton should he depart the Etihad Stadium in the remaining days before Tuesday’s deadline. This potential move follows a loan spell last season where Grealish made twenty appearances for the Toffees, contributing two goals and six assists before suffering a foot injury that ended his campaign in January.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has acknowledged the possibility of Grealish leaving the club. While the thirty-year-old has featured as a substitute in City’s opening two matches of the current season, Maresca stated he is open to facilitating a departure. The manager emphasized his duty to support the player until any final decision is made, noting that he communicates with Grealish daily and expects clarity within the next few days.
Despite the reported interest from Everton, no concrete offers for Grealish have been received by Manchester City as of yet. Aston Villa, Grealish’s former club, are also believed to maintain an interest in re-signing their ex-captain. However, City sources suggest that discussions remain preliminary, with no firm bids materializing from any potential suitors during this transfer window.
Everton’s stance on a potential reunion is characterized by cautious optimism. Chief executive Angus Kinnear confirmed that the club has remained in contact with Grealish, highlighting the player’s decision to complete his rehabilitation in Merseyside rather than returning to Manchester earlier. Kinnear noted that the player’s integration into the squad and support from fans provide a strong foundation for future negotiations, though he acknowledged Grealish remains a City property.
In a potential reciprocal move, Manchester City are exploring the acquisition of Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye. The twenty-six-year-old Senegal international has reportedly rejected multiple contract extension offers at Goodison Park. His desire to compete in the Champions League is cited as a primary motivation for seeking a new club, despite his current deal running until 2029.
Everton manager David Moyes faces a difficult balancing act regarding Ndiaye’s future. While the Senegalese forward is considered one of the most creative players in the squad, Moyes has expressed a desire to enhance overall team quality. The sale of Ndiaye would represent a significant loss for Everton, but the potential return of Grealish could mitigate that impact by providing experienced creativity and leadership.
Financial considerations play a crucial role in any potential transfer involving Ndiaye. Everton is under no immediate pressure to sell the winger and is expected to demand a substantial fee, estimated around £70 million, before entertaining any offers. This high valuation reflects both his contract status and his importance to Moyes’ tactical setup, making a straightforward swap unlikely without significant additional compensation.
Ndiaye’s interest from abroad remains strong, with Saudi side Al-Hilal having pursued him earlier in the summer. However, the player reportedly turned down the move, preferring to remain in Europe where he can compete at the highest level. This rejection underscores his ambition and may strengthen Everton’s hand in negotiations with Manchester City or other interested parties.
Beyond these high-profile moves, Everton is also active in securing younger talent. The club is in talks to sign Manchester City defender Stephen Mfuni on a season-long loan deal. The eighteen-year-old made his first-team debut last season and gained valuable experience through an eight-appearance loan spell at Watford in the Championship.
As the transfer deadline approaches, the dynamics between Manchester City and Everton will likely determine the final outcome for both Grealish and Ndiaye. Maresca’s willingness to let Grealish go contrasts with Moyes’ reluctance to part with Ndiaye, creating a complex negotiation landscape. The resolution of these talks will have significant implications for both clubs’ strategies in the upcoming Premier League season.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC News↗Grealish keen on Everton, Man City look at Ndiaye
