Keith Wyness: Everton Could Now Agree £20m Jack Grealish Deal

Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness has suggested that Everton could secure a permanent deal for Jack Grealish from Manchester City for around £20 million next summer, providing a major transfer boost for the club.[1][2]

Wyness, who led Everton from 2004 to 2009 and now advises elite clubs via his consultancy, shared his insights on Football Insider's Inside Track podcast. He highlighted Everton's improved platform under new ownership from The Friedkin Group, following the resolution of past PSR (Profit and Sustainability Rules) issues that forced player sales.[1]

"We've got a platform to build on which we didn’t have before," Wyness stated, emphasizing the need for squad depth, goal-scoring solutions, and revitalizing the academy. Everton has made its academy full-time, enabling UK-wide recruitment to produce more homegrown talent and replenish the squad.[1]

Grealish Loan Success and Permanent Option

Grealish, 30, is currently on loan at Everton from Manchester City, where he has impressed with two goals and four assists in 16 Premier League appearances this season. Entering the final year of his City contract in summer 2026, a bargain £20m move becomes feasible.[1]

In a YouTube interview, Wyness referenced a £50 million option to buy clause but noted Everton might negotiate a lower January price. He praised Grealish as a "good pro" whose addition "won't unsettle the squad" and would enhance depth without disruption.[2][5]

Wyness knows Grealish well and believes an Everton move is "increasingly likely," predicting success at his next Premier League club. He dismissed rival interest from Aston Villa, who won't activate a loan-to-buy clause, clearing the path.[3][5]

Everton's 2026 Ambitions

With financial pressures eased, manager David Moyes can focus on targets like Grealish. Wyness stressed academy investment and homegrown production as key to long-term stability, calling these "nice problems" compared to prior crises.[1]

This potential deal aligns with Everton's strategy to build sustainably while adding proven quality. Fans await confirmation as negotiations loom.[2][4]

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