Sunderland close in on 'game-changing' signing as Jack Grealish talks accelerate

Sunderland are pushing to reach an agreement with Manchester City over a deal for Jack Grealish in the transfer window's closing stages.

The 30-year-old returned to the Etihad following a loan spell at Everton last time out, but is widely expected to move on again, and Sunderland are now at the front of the queue.

Despite being cast aside under Pep Guardiola at Man City, the England international remains very highly regarded, with a number of clubs checking on his situation.

Former Sunderland scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Grealish is a "game-changer" and would improve any team he joins, with the level of interest coming as no surprise.

Enzo Maresca has also considered reintegrating the midfielder into his plans at the Etihad, and he has featured in the last two competitive games under the new manager.

However, Sunderland are confident of getting a deal over the line, and believe they can beat their rivals to an agreement after stealing a march with their opening offer.

Will Man City accept a new offer for Jack Grealish?

Former Everton scout Bryan King told Football Insider on 16 August that Man City are ready to let Grealish leave, and a discounted fee could be agreed in the window's closing stages.

Sunderland have now made the first approach for his signature, with an initial loan deal discussed as they aim to beat rivals to a deal.

While it remains to be seen whether Sunderland can pull off his signing or whether their rivals will join them in the race, Grealish has been backed to thirve at his next club.

"Everybody is still expecting Jack Grealish to leave Man City before the deadline," Brown told Football Insider.

"There had been some suggestions that he could stay, but if he wants to be playing regularly as an important part of a team, then his best bet is a move away from Man City.

"He's still a talented lad, Jack Grealish, and he showed that at Everton last year before he picked up that injury.

"That's why there are so many clubs interested in him, because when he's at his best, he can be a game-changing player and that's the type of signing every club wants to make.

"Whichever club he ends up at, he will be an improvement on their current options, and at his best could make himself a crucial part of the plans.

"That move to Everton is probably still the one to watch, but there are other Premier League clubs having look at his situation who could look to get in there first.

"It doesn't seem like he's going to be a regular at Man City, so there will be clubs keeping an eye on that situation, and whoever makes the first move could be in a good position."

Which other clubs are interested in Grealish?

Despite Sunderland pushing forward in their pursuit of Grealish, they are far from alone in their pursuit and could face stiff comeptition before the 1 September deadline.

A number of clubs have expressed an interest in the Man City star, with the likes of Newcastle United and Tottenham also mentioned, as well as a surprise return to Aston Villa.

Football Insider revealed on 12 August that Everton remain the favourites to sign Grealish from Man City this summer, with the winger having enjoyed his loan spell on Merseyside.

David Moyes would also be keen to bring the England international back to the Hill Dickinson Stadium, and work has been done behind the scenes to line up a return.

However, with Sunderland having made the first move and now pushing to get a deal over the line, Everton may find it difficult to beat their rivals to his signature.