Everton and West Ham United are both reportedly interested in handing Jack Grealish the chance to move up to the Premier League this summer.
It is going to be an extremely difficult summer for Villa, it seems, with the Mail reporting that Tony Xia needs to plug a £45 million hole to avoid breaching Financial Fair Play rules as they brace themselves for a third year in the Championship.
Steve Bruce’s men came within touching distance of ending their top flight exile this past season, but a Tom Cairney goal ensured that it was Fulham who clinched play-off glory. And it appears that the Wembley showdown may prove to be Grealish’s final appearance for the club.
The Mail reports that Villa value the 22-year-old – who was sensational in the final and could have done little more to inspire his team – at more than £25 million, so a sale would see a large portion of their financial concerns alleviated. And it seems that there may no shortage in takers for his signature.
The Mail adds that West Ham, Everton and Leicester have all been monitoring Grealish’s situation and will now be considering whether to make a move during the coming months. With Villa needing to sell, it would certainly appear to be the best time for the top flight trio to test the Villans’ resolve to keep their talisman.
West Ham and Everton fans may perhaps largely remember Grealish being one of those players who seemed to have buckets of talent, but one who looked destined to struggle to realise his full potential.
However, the Villa academy graduate has found another gear since returning from a horrific injury last summer, and that should certainly tempt the likes of the Hammers and Toffees to push for a deal while Villa may have to reluctantly welcome bids for their star man.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
