Masterstroke from Grealish agents, as star moves to brink of huge Villa exit
The representatives of England star Jack Grealish have persuaded Aston Villa to let their captain seal a massive summer transfer, a report claims.
The 25-year-old has lit up the Premier League since returning to the division with his boyhood club in 2019. Since then, he has chipped in with 14 top-flight goals and 18 assists, subsequently earning England recognition. Indeed, there are calls for him to start the Three Lions’ Euro 2020 last 16 clash with Germany.
As well as his trajectory with England, talk has ramped up over Grealish’s big-money Villa exit.
While he quashed such rumours with a bumper new contract last summer, his domestic and international form has brought the subject back into view.
Manchester City look the firm candidates for his signature. They are reportedly willing to make Grealish English football’s first £100million player.
Villa have always insisted that their star man will not leave, but according to The Sun, his agents have convinced the club to change their stance.
ICM Stellar Sports – which represents Grealish – have successfully changed Villa chiefs’ minds with talks over the ‘past few weeks’, the newspaper says.
As such, Villa will let the attacker leave once England’s participation at Euro 2020 comes to an end.
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City boss Pep Guardiola reportedly feels ‘desperate’ to add Grealish to his ranks in a £100million move.
The Spaniard is looking to push his team to Champions League glory after last season’s heartache in the final.
And with Grealish aiming to take the step up to premier European football, Villa are aware that they cannot stop his wishes forever.
City will reportedly make their move in July so that the player can join pre-season training.
Grealish has already shown an exciting relationship with City winger Raheem Sterling. The pair combined to hand England the winner over the Czech Republic on Tuesday.
Villa making midfield transfer moves
Amid the speculation over Grealish’s future, Villa have taken steps towards bolstering their ranks.
They beat Arsenal to Norwich star Emiliano Buendia, paying a club-record fee in the process.
Villa also reportedly want Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse; the Englishman would reportedly be keen to transfer to Dean Smith’s side.
Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe is a further target and a bid has been rejected.
READ MORE: Chairman issues transfer ultimatum as Villa eye move for Euros superstar