Jack Grealish (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
Everton will not activate Jack Grealish’s €50m clause but plan fresh talks with Manchester City as the midfielder recovers from injury and pushes to stay.
Everton have decided not to activate the €50 million buy option for Jack Grealish, but the story is far from over.
According to reports, the Merseyside club still want to keep the Manchester City playmaker and plan to reopen negotiations once the summer transfer window begins.
The decision reflects financial caution rather than a lack of belief in the player.
Grealish, who joined Manchester City from Aston Villa for around €117.5 million in 2021, arrived at Everton on loan last summer in search of regular minutes.
Under David Moyes, he quickly rediscovered form and confidence.
The 30-year-old made 22 appearances, scoring two goals and providing six assists as Everton climbed into the top half of the Premier League.
More importantly, he brought creativity, control, and composure in possession, qualities that had faded during his final period at the Etihad.
His progress was halted in February, when a stress fracture in his foot ruled him out for the rest of the season.
His last appearance came in January against Aston Villa, the club where he first became a star.
The injury played a key role in Everton’s decision to avoid triggering the clause.
Still, the club see long-term value in keeping him.
New talks with Manchester City are expected, with both a new loan and a permanent transfer under discussion.
There is growing belief that a compromise deal could be reached at a lower fee.
Grealish is also open to staying.
Instead of returning to Manchester City for rehabilitation, he chose to remain on Merseyside, continuing his recovery with Everton’s medical staff.
That decision reflects his comfort at the club and strong relationship with the squad.
Inside the dressing room, he is seen as a key figure, both for his experience and personality.
His performances before the injury gave fans a glimpse of what he can bring when fully fit.
Everton now face a clear choice.
Push for a deal and build around a player who fits their system, or walk away due to financial risk.
For Grealish, the priority is simple.
Return to full fitness and secure a place where he plays regularly ahead of the next World Cup.
The next few months will decide whether his revival continues at Goodison Park or takes him elsewhere.