Grealish given new Man City exit route as Premier League club eye surprise swoop – Whisper+ verdict

Chelsea Grealish
Chelsea join Grealish race - Photo by IMAGO

Latest developments

  • Chelsea is regarded as a potential destination for Jack Grealish.
  • Grealish is likely to depart in search of regular game time.
  • Manchester City will demand sizeable fee.

Whisper+ analysis

Authenticity (2/5): Chelsea emerges as Grealish suitor

Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United have both been previously linked with the Man City attacker, who appears to be heading towards the exit door at the Etihad Stadium.

According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea are also among the clubs who could move for Grealish in the summer transfer window. The report also claims that Italian giants AC Milan and his former Club Aston Villa are among his potential suitors.

Value (2.5/5): Man City set to demand significant fee

While a specific fee has not been specified, Man City are keen to recoup as much as possible from the £100m they paid to sign Grealish from Villa in the summer of 2021. The Citizens are in a relatively strong negotiation position, with Grealish's contract set to run until June 2027.

Suitability (3/5): Known to Maresca

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca will be aware of Grealish's quality from his time working as an assistant to Pep Guardiola. There may be concern that he is set to turn 30 this year, given Chelsea's recent history of signing players with potential to develop.

Upgrade? (4/5): Sancho replacement

Chelsea currently have an obligation to buy Jadon Sancho from Manchester United following the end of his loan move. However, they could be considering whether to pay £5m to send him back to Old Trafford following his underwhelming form.

If he were to depart, Grealish represents a strong option to bolster Maresca's left-wing options ahead of next season.

Logic (4/5): Chance to gain regular game time

A move to Chelsea could enable Grealish to increase his minutes after struggling for starting opportunities this season. The 29-year-old has started just 10 of his 26 competitive appearances in the 2024-25 campaign.

Whisper+ verdict: 15.5/25

A move to Chelsea could help revitalise Grealish's career, while he would also add crucial experience to Maresca's side. However, there appears to be little information about the seriousness of Chelsea's interest, meaning this rumour should be treated with caution at this early stage.