As the summer transfer window heats up, Manchester City’s charismatic winger Jack Grealish finds himself at the heart of swirling speculation about his future. The 29-year-old England international, once the poster boy of a record-breaking £100 million move from Aston Villa in 2021, is reportedly on the verge of a major career shift. With interest from Bayern Munich and Napoli, Grealish could reunite with either England teammate Harry Kane or former Manchester City maestro Kevin De Bruyne, though a stay in the Premier League remains a tantalizing possibility. The prospect of a move has ignited excitement and uncertainty, as Grealish weighs his options to revive his career and reclaim his spot in the England squad.
Grealish’s time at Manchester City, while trophy-laden, has been a rollercoaster. His pivotal role in the 2022-23 Treble-winning season, including a Champions League triumph, showcased his flair and ability to thrive under pressure. However, the 2024-25 campaign was a stark contrast, with injuries and inconsistent form limiting him to just seven Premier League starts, one goal, and one assist. Pep Guardiola’s preference for wingers like Jeremy Doku and Omar Marmoush relegated Grealish to the bench, culminating in his exclusion from City’s squad for the final match against Fulham and the upcoming Club World Cup. “It’s a dream come true to be part of this club,” Grealish said in 2021 upon joining City, but recent struggles have dimmed that dream, prompting both player and club to seek a fresh start.
Bayern Munich, under incoming manager Vincent Kompany, has emerged as a serious contender for Grealish’s signature. Kompany, a known admirer, sees the winger as a dynamic addition to a forward line featuring Harry Kane, who has been a prolific force in the Bundesliga since his 2023 move from Tottenham. A move to Bayern would reunite Grealish with Kane, his England captain, offering the chance to link up in the Champions League and bolster his international prospects. “Jack’s quality on the pitch and his personality off it make him a unique asset,” Kompany reportedly told Bayern’s board, highlighting Grealish’s potential to thrive in Munich’s high-octane attack.
Meanwhile, Napoli, the reigning Serie A champions, present an equally compelling option. Kevin De Bruyne, who left Manchester City on a free transfer in June 2025 after a decade of brilliance, has urged Napoli’s manager Antonio Conte to pursue Grealish. “He’s given me a glowing reference,” Grealish reportedly told friends, referencing De Bruyne’s endorsement. Napoli’s interest is driven by Conte’s vision to pair Grealish with stars like Scott McTominay, who won Serie A’s MVP award in 2024-25, and Romelu Lukaku. However, Napoli’s reluctance to match Grealish’s £300,000-a-week wages poses a hurdle, with suggestions that City may need to subsidize up to 50% of his salary to facilitate a deal. “The lure from Italy is stronger,” a source close to Grealish noted, emphasizing the appeal of joining De Bruyne in Naples and continuing in the Champions League.
Despite the continental interest, a Premier League stay remains on the table. Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, and Everton have all made inquiries, with Tottenham’s £40 million bid in June 2025 signaling serious intent. A return to Aston Villa, where Grealish rose to stardom, would be an emotional homecoming, though financial constraints make it unlikely. Everton, eyeing a loan deal, could offer Grealish regular minutes to impress England manager Thomas Tuchel, who has assured him of a national team future with consistent play. “I want to keep playing at the highest level possible,” Grealish reportedly told his agent, expressing openness to both domestic and European moves.
City, keen to recoup part of their £100 million investment, are open to a permanent transfer for around £50 million, a significant loss but reflective of Grealish’s reduced role. A loan move, while less ideal, is also an option, particularly if suitors like Napoli or Everton can’t meet his wage demands. Guardiola, despite his affection for Grealish’s infectious personality, has acknowledged the need for a smaller squad, stating, “Jack’s been brilliant for us, but sometimes a change is best for everyone.” As Grealish navigates this pivotal moment, his decision will hinge on balancing regular playing time, Champions League aspirations, and a chance to reignite his career alongside familiar faces like Kane or De Bruyne. With the transfer window in full swing, the football world awaits the next chapter for one of England’s most enigmatic talents.
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