As Everton bask in the glow of a revitalized 2025-26 Premier League campaign, the club is already plotting to make Jack Grealish’s transformative loan spell a permanent fixture at Hill Dickinson Stadium. The 30-year-old England international, on loan from Manchester City, has ignited the Toffees’ attack with a flair not seen in years, prompting manager David Moyes and the club’s hierarchy to prioritize a long-term deal for the charismatic midfielder. With four assists in just two Premier League games and a magnetic connection with fans, Grealish’s impact has been undeniable, fueling Everton’s ambition to lock him in beyond the current season.
Grealish’s arrival in August 2025, on a season-long loan with a £50 million option to buy, marked a statement of intent from Everton’s new American owners, The Friedkin Group. The former Aston Villa star, who joined City for a British record £100 million in 2021, had fallen out of favor under Pep Guardiola, starting just seven Premier League matches last season. Seeking to revive his career and secure a spot in England’s 2026 World Cup squad, Grealish chose Everton after talks with Moyes, who convinced him of the club’s vision. “As soon as I spoke to the manager, I knew there was only one place that I wanted to go,” Grealish said upon signing, citing the allure of Everton’s passionate fanbase and storied history.
Since donning the iconic No. 18 shirt—previously worn by club legends Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne—Grealish has been a revelation. In Everton’s 2-0 victory over Brighton in their first match at Hill Dickinson Stadium, he delivered two assists, including a pinpoint cross for Iliman Ndiaye’s opener. He followed this with another two-assist masterclass in a thrilling 3-2 win at Wolves, earning chants of “Super Jack” from adoring supporters. “It was like a UFC chokehold,” Grealish laughed, describing the fans’ embrace after the Wolves match. His four assists in two games have already doubled his output from his final two seasons at City, showcasing a return to the dynamic, creative form that made him a star at Villa.
Everton’s pursuit of a permanent deal is driven by Grealish’s on-field brilliance and off-field marketability. His Instagram posts about the club have garnered massive engagement, with one racking up 800,000 likes, boosting Everton’s global visibility. This commercial appeal, coupled with his ability to draw fouls and create chances, aligns perfectly with Moyes’ vision of building an attack-minded squad. The club’s strong start, including wins over Brighton and Wolves, has been fueled by Grealish’s synergy with new signings like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Iliman Ndiaye. “I thought Jack was brilliant,” Moyes said after the Wolves game, praising his ability to make Everton “a much bigger threat.”
The financial logistics of a permanent transfer, however, pose challenges. Everton are covering roughly 75% of Grealish’s £300,000 weekly wages, totaling around £11 million for the season. The £50 million buy option, while half of City’s original fee, is considered steep given Grealish’s age and his contract, which runs until 2027. Everton are optimistic they can negotiate a lower fee, especially as City appear resigned to his departure. “He’s been allowed to go on loan with an option to buy, and he is resigned to leaving City,” a source close to the deal noted, suggesting flexibility in future talks. Competing interest from European clubs, including Serie A champions Napoli, adds urgency to Everton’s plans.
Grealish’s desire to reclaim his England spot under Thomas Tuchel further fuels his motivation. After being omitted from the 2024 European Championship and City’s Club World Cup squad, he views Everton as the platform to shine. Moyes, a long-time admirer, believes Grealish can be the talisman to elevate the club. “He probably needs a bit of love and attention. He needs the games as well,” Moyes said, emphasizing the importance of regular playtime. With Everton’s squad bolstered by signings like Dewsbury-Hall and Thierno Barry, and the retention of key defender Jarrad Branthwaite, the club is signaling ambition not seen in years.
As the season progresses, Grealish’s performances will determine whether Everton can secure him permanently. His ability to transform the team’s attack, coupled with his fan appeal, makes him a cornerstone of their new era. For now, the Toffees are savoring the magic of “Super Jack,” hoping to turn his loan into a lasting legacy at their gleaming new stadium.
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