David Moyes explains what needs to happen to make Jack Grealish Everton transfer permanent

Everton manager David Moyes believes there is a realistic path for Jack Grealish to remain at the club beyond his loan spell, praising the Manchester City winger for the immediate impact he has made since arriving in the summer.

Grealish has quickly become a fan favourite, delivering crucial moments—including decisive contributions against Crystal Palace and Bournemouth—that have helped energise Everton’s rebuild.

Moyes said he would love to see Grealish’s connection with supporters continue into next season, but admitted that any permanent deal would depend on Manchester City lowering their valuation.

The current loan includes an option to buy for around £50m—an amount Moyes made clear Everton cannot meet, especially with the 30-year-old now past that milestone age.

Grealish delighted travelling fans on Tuesday when his deflected strike secured Everton’s first-ever Premier League win at Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium—a ground that has historically caused them trouble.

It was another standout moment in a season that also includes his two assists in the opening win at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

After the match, Grealish expressed his affection for Moyes, saying he “loved him to pieces.” Moyes laughed off the wording but praised the attacker’s professionalism, noting that their strong relationship comes from honest, straightforward communication rather than exaggerated promises.

Speaking ahead of Everton’s clash with Nottingham Forest, Moyes said he can envision Grealish still being at the club next season—if he maintains his current level.

“Yes, I do,” Moyes said. “He just needs to keep showing what he’s capable of. The biggest thing for me is he’s been able to get through games. I’m not feeling like I need to take him off. He’s handled most of the 90 minutes really well.”

Whether a permanent move happens will depend on City’s willingness to negotiate. Moyes hopes that continued strong performances may lead to positive discussions, but he stressed that Grealish must also want the switch.

The Everton boss referenced his experience with Jesse Lingard at West Ham, who thrived on loan—scoring nine goals in 16 games and earning an England recall—yet ultimately chose to return to Manchester United, only to find limited opportunities.

Moyes said it served as a reminder that even when a player enjoys the environment and the supporters, decisions are not always straightforward.

“I’m not saying Jack’s situation is the same,” he said, “but sometimes you have to make brave decisions. I think Jesse enjoyed his time at West Ham and the fans loved him for the goals he scored. But he thought he was going back to play for Manchester United—and he didn’t.”

Despite the uncertainty, Moyes believes Grealish has settled quickly and found a new home at Everton, setting up what could become one of the club’s most intriguing transfer sagas heading into the summer.