Manchester City could consider selling Jack Grealish during the next summer transfer window as they plan to make room for a potential new winger. According to former Manchester United and Aston Villa senior scout Mick Brown, who remains highly connected in football circles, the Premier League champions are exploring options to strengthen their squad in Grealish’s position. Brown shared this insight in an exclusive interview with *Football Insider*, hinting that City’s pursuit of an elite winger could lead to the departure of the 29-year-old England international.
The possibility of Grealish’s exit aligns with other reports suggesting City’s interest in Barcelona’s Raphinha, who has caught the attention of top European clubs. While a January move for Grealish seems unlikely, sources indicate that the club and player are both assessing a summer transfer as a feasible outcome. With his inconsistent role at City this season, the former Aston Villa star may be motivated to seek a club that can guarantee more regular playing time.
**Inconsistent Season Raises Questions about Grealish’s Role**
Jack Grealish has found himself in a somewhat uncertain position at Manchester City this season. He has played in ten out of City’s 16 matches so far but has only started in eight and averages just 53 minutes per game. He has also missed the last four games due to an injury sustained during training, further reducing his impact on the pitch. Despite his return to the England national team camps recently, Grealish has faced increased competition at City, which may impact his place in the squad and prompt him to consider a change.
Grealish’s playing time has fluctuated since his record-breaking £100 million move from Aston Villa to Manchester City in 2021. While he has had bright moments, including helping City secure the Premier League and Champions League double last season, his presence has not been as central as initially hoped. His limited minutes and less prominent role in recent months suggest a shift in Guardiola’s tactics and selection preferences, with other emerging talents filling similar roles.
In June, it was reported by *Football Insider* that Grealish had contemplated a transfer to gain more playing time after missing out on Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad. While he has since returned to the England fold, City’s continued interest in a new winger could further impact his future at the Etihad Stadium.
**City’s Potential Move for a Big-Name Winger**
Rumors linking City to high-profile wingers like Raphinha underscore the club’s intent to maintain a fresh, dynamic attack. With players such as Jeremy Doku and young talent Savinho showcasing their potential, City is increasingly considering new talent that could add a different edge to their forward options. According to Mick Brown, City is actively assessing how to strengthen their squad in this position, aiming to bring in an elite winger to further boost their lineup.
“If they bring in a big-name winger next summer, then where does Grealish fit in the squad?” Brown questioned in his interview with *Football Insider*. “He’s been in and out of the team again this season and he’s not a regular feature there.” Brown went on to emphasize that City’s management may decide to “move him out to make space” if a new signing materializes, particularly as Grealish’s substantial wages could free up budget for another high-caliber addition.
Brown, who has known Grealish since his Aston Villa days, remarked on the England international’s desire to play regular football, adding, “I’m sure it’s something he’d be open to as well because he wants to play football—I know Jack from his time at Villa, and he’s always wanted to play regular games.”
The potential of moving Grealish would not only make space for a new player but also allow City to recoup a portion of the substantial investment they made in signing him. With his wages reportedly among the highest at the club, a departure could ease City’s wage bill, freeing funds for fresh acquisitions.
**Grealish’s Options for the Future**
While a January transfer for Grealish is unlikely, the summer window could offer him opportunities to explore a move to another top European club, potentially where his skills would be more central to the team’s strategy. Teams in both the Premier League and abroad would likely show interest in a player of his creativity and flair, especially given his proven impact at Aston Villa and in key moments for City.
Several clubs could benefit from Grealish’s playmaking abilities, and a move might offer him a platform to showcase his full potential in a starting role. Additionally, City’s decision to listen to offers might attract suitors willing to offer Grealish regular minutes and a more defined role within their lineup. This shift could be mutually beneficial, as City seeks to keep their squad refreshed and Grealish aims to maximize his prime years.
While Grealish’s future remains uncertain, one factor is clear: his dedication to playing and contributing at the highest level. With his consistent desire to improve and an ambition to play a starring role, a summer transfer might reignite his career if City’s plans involve significant changes to their attacking options.
**Manchester City’s Vision for the Next Season**
City’s ambitions extend beyond domestic success; they are focused on building a versatile and competitive squad capable of competing on all fronts. Pep Guardiola is known for his adaptability and vision, and the club’s pursuit of another winger reflects this long-term planning. With competition for starting spots intensifying and young talents like Doku and Savinho emerging, City’s strategy is clear: they want to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving game.
For Grealish, this season’s challenges could serve as a pivotal point in his career. Should he decide to stay and fight for his place, he faces the prospect of increased competition and the need to adjust to Guardiola’s evolving tactics. Alternatively, if he pursues a transfer, he could find a fresh start that allows him to recapture the level of influence he enjoyed at Villa.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Grealish’s next move, with City and potential suitors closely monitoring the situation. This decision could shape not only Grealish’s trajectory but also influence City’s roster as they continue to build a squad capable of sustained success. Whether he remains part of Guardiola’s vision or seeks a new chapter, Grealish’s journey remains a captivating storyline in the ongoing evolution of the Premier League.