Pep Guardiola tells Man City to move for Jack Grealish
Manchester United had previously been favourites to sign Grealish this summer, but it is now City - and specifically Guardiola - who are currently the most intent on his signature
Your support helps us to tell the story
As your White House correspondent, I ask the tough questions and seek the answers that matter.
Your support enables me to be in the room, pressing for transparency and accountability. Without your contributions, we wouldn't have the resources to challenge those in power.
Your donation makes it possible for us to keep doing this important work, keeping you informed every step of the way to the November election
Andrew Feinberg
White House Correspondent
Pep Guardiola wants Manchester City to move for Jack Grealish, having identified the Aston Villa attacker as a top target for his planned rebuild.
Potential signings formed a key part of Guardiola’s own negotiations for a new contract, which was signed last week, as he realises the need to overhaul this team.
A number of potential options were discussed - including Harry Kane and Lionel Messi - but the Catalan is a huge admirer of Grealish, who he sees as a highly buyable player who can also restore a spark to City’s play.
The Independent has been told that Guardiola has discussed the 25-year-old’s quality with Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian was effusive in his praise of Grealish after his country's recent 2-0 win over England, describing him as a player City must try and sign.
READ MORE: Champions League fixtures this week and latest standings
Manchester United had previously been favourites to sign Grealish this summer, only to balk at a price of around £70m amid the Covid crisis. That value has only gone up.
With no move in the summer after Villa’s survival, Grealish signed a new five-year deal in September, and it is understood that involves an agreement that he cannot leave Villa Park for less than £100m.
Many close to the player however feel it is only a matter of time until he makes the step up to one of the big six.
City - and specifically Guardiola - are currently the most intent on his signature.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments