Everton in advanced talks to sign Jack Grealish on loan

The Times reports Everton are in advanced negotiations with Manchester City for Jack Grealish. The England international is keen on the move, despite City’s demand to cover most of his £300,000-a-week wages.

Everton are pushing hard to bring Jack Grealish to Goodison Park on loan — and they’re refusing to be deterred by the financial hurdles involved.

According to Paul Joyce of The Times, talks have accelerated in recent days with growing belief that the 29-year-old is open to the switch. City are understood to be seeking up to £12 million in wage contributions for the season-long deal.

Grealish, who turns 30 next month, has been told by Pep Guardiola he will not be a regular starter this season. Falling down the pecking order has left him searching for a fresh challenge, and David Moyes is eager to hand him the creative role that could revive both his career and Everton’s attacking threat.

Everton’s summer business has been solid, but there’s still a need for a player capable of unlocking defences. Grealish’s pedigree — from starring in Manchester City’s 2022–23 Treble to his creative influence in tight games — makes him an attractive, if expensive, target.

City’s wage demands are steep, but the Toffees’ hierarchy see value in the risk if Grealish can rediscover his top form. Moyes’ reputation for getting the best out of players seeking a career reset could be the decisive factor.

For Grealish, the move is about more than minutes on the pitch. With Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for next summer’s World Cup in mind, regular football is essential.

His spell at City brought major honours, but inconsistent playing time and injuries have disrupted momentum. Everton could provide the perfect environment for him to rebuild confidence and rhythm.

While the Grealish talks advance, Everton’s move for Southampton’s Tyler Dibling has stalled. The club have seen three bids rejected — the latest £37 million including add-ons — with Southampton holding firm at £45 million plus extras.

Dibling is said to be open to the switch, but unless a compromise is reached, Everton’s marquee focus remains firmly on Grealish.

If Everton get this over the line, it will be one of the Premier League’s most intriguing deals of the summer. It’s high risk — huge wages, injury history, short-term tenure — but high reward if Grealish reignites his spark.

At a new stadium, under a manager who thrives with players needing a reset, Grealish could be the statement signing that turns Everton from mid-table into European challengers.

The next stage in negotiations will focus on bridging the wage gap. Manchester City remain firm on recovering up to £12 million for Grealish’s salary during the loan, but Everton are exploring creative payment structures to make the deal work within their budget.

If progress is made this week, Grealish could undergo a medical and join Moyes’ squad before the end of the month, giving him a full week of training before Everton’s first home game at Bramley-Moore Dock.

From Grealish’s perspective, a swift resolution is key. The England international wants regular minutes to boost his World Cup hopes under Thomas Tuchel, and Everton’s current attacking set-up offers an immediate route into the starting XI.

Should talks stall, rival Premier League clubs — or even ambitious European sides — could move in, but as it stands Everton remain in pole position. The coming days will determine whether this high-profile loan becomes one of the headline deals of the summer.

Should Everton take the gamble and seal Jack Grealish’s loan — or hold out for a younger, long-term option? Share your verdict below.