Jack Grealish ‘keen’ on Everton move as Enzo Maresca plans talks for Man City lifeline
Jack Grealish remains “keen” on a permanent move to Everton this summer despite the managerial change at Manchester City, sources have told Football Insider.
Enzo Maresca is keen to sit down for talks with the 30-year-old once he officially takes the reins at the Etihad Stadium, as he is prepared to hand the winger a lifeline at the club.
Grealish has every intention of entertaining the Italian’s suggestions, but sources have indicated that his preference is still to move away, due to concerns regarding his gametime.
The veteran wants regular football at this stage of his career, and does not believe that Maresca will be able to guarantee him a regular starting spot.
Man City’s transfer plans will be affected significantly by Maresca’s arrival, as it looks set to wipe the slate clean for several members of the squad.
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VISIT THE TRANSFER HUBEnzo Maresca will try to persuade Jack Grealish
Everton have made it abundantly clear throughout Grealish’s loan spell that they would jump at the chance to sign him permanently, but they are unable to meet the £50million purchase option in the current agreement.
Had Pep Guardiola stayed in charge at the Etihad for another season, then it was becoming increasingly likely that the Citizens would have entertained the idea of a cut-price sale to the Toffees, in order to get Grealish’s wages off their books.
| Stats | Grealish Totals |
| Apps (Starts) | 20 (18) |
| G/A | 8 |
| Chances Created per 90 | 2.1 |
| Successful Dribbles per 90 | 1.27 |
| Shots on Target per 90 | 0.44 |
| Duels Won % | 50.5% |
However, the picture now appears set to change when Maresca walks through the door, as he will put the offer of a lifeline on the table for the star.
The incoming boss clearly feels that he would be able to get the best out of the wideman, whose career had been stagnating somewhat prior to his move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Grealish’s current stance is clear in that he feels it is the right time for him to move on from City for good, but that is unlikely to stop Maresca trying to persuade him to change his mind.
A lengthy injury lay-off has prevented him from featuring for Everton in recent months, and the lack of football that he expects to receive back at his parent club is currently the driving factor behind his desire to leave.
Man City battling Chelsea for talented starlet
Football Insider revealed on Tuesday that Man City are battling Chelsea to sign Harrison Bettoni, who has made a name for himself at Wigan Athletic this season.
The Premier League duo are both in talks for the 18-year-old sensation, who is out of contract with the Latics this summer, so could be allowed to leave for “minimal compensation.”
The attacking midfielder scored a brace on his League One debut back in November, and ended the campaign with four goals from just 11 starts at first-team level.
Bettoni is viewed as a potential star of the future if he continues to develop at the same rate, and AC Milan have also been paying close attention to his performances in recent months.
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