Fabrizio Romano drops Jack Grealish signing hint

Jack Grealish’s arrival at Everton during the summer transfer window was, without question, one of the most eye-catching moves in English football.

While the Toffees strengthened in several areas ahead of the new campaign, no signing generated quite the same level of excitement, intrigue, and scrutiny as the England international’s decision to swap Manchester City for Merseyside on a season-long loan deal.

For a club eager to re-establish itself among the Premier League’s upper tier, landing a player of Grealish’s profile felt like both a statement of intent and a calculated gamble.

At Manchester City, Grealish’s career had stalled in recent seasons. After arriving at the Etihad as a British-record signing, expectations were sky-high, but his role gradually diminished under Pep Guardiola.

While he remained a useful squad player, his influence waned, particularly over the last two campaigns, where injuries, tactical demands, and fierce competition for places limited his opportunities.

By the end of last season, it was clear that Grealish was no longer a central figure in Guardiola’s long-term plans, prompting serious questions about his future at the club.

Everton, meanwhile, were searching for creativity, leadership, and attacking spark. Under David Moyes, the Toffees were determined to rebuild not just their squad, but their identity.

Moyes wanted players who could shoulder responsibility, lift standards, and energise both the dressing room and the fanbase. In Grealish, Everton saw an opportunity to revive a top-level talent who still had plenty to offer at the highest level.

From the moment Grealish arrived at Goodison Park, the change in environment appeared to suit him perfectly. Freed from the rigid positional discipline that often defined his role at City, Grealish was given licence to express himself.

Moyes trusted him to influence games, drift into pockets of space, and become a focal point of Everton’s attacking play. The result was immediate and emphatic.

Grealish quickly went from being a peripheral figure at City to a central pillar of Everton’s side.

His performances in the opening months of the season reminded many observers of the player who once lit up the Premier League at Aston Villa.

Confident on the ball, direct in his dribbling, and increasingly decisive in the final third, Grealish rediscovered his rhythm. His impact was reflected not just in the eye test, but in tangible numbers.

By the early stages of the campaign, he had already registered six goal contributions, underlining his growing influence in crucial moments.

Perhaps the clearest indicator of Grealish’s resurgence came when he was named Premier League Player of the Month for September. The accolade was recognition of his consistency, creativity, and leadership during a period in which Everton picked up valuable results.

For a player who had endured a frustrating spell on the fringes at City, the award symbolised a personal revival and validated Everton’s decision to take a chance on him.

Beyond statistics and individual honours, Grealish’s presence has transformed the mood around the club. Everton supporters, long starved of flair and attacking ambition, have embraced him wholeheartedly.

His work rate, visible enjoyment, and willingness to take responsibility have resonated with the fanbase. Each time he carries the ball forward or demands possession in tight areas, there is a renewed sense of belief inside the stadium.

His influence has also extended into the dressing room. Teammates have spoken about his leadership qualities and the confidence he brings to the side.

Grealish’s experience at the very top of the game, including multiple Premier League titles, has added a new dimension to Everton’s squad. Younger players, in particular, have benefited from his guidance and example, while his calmness under pressure has helped Everton navigate difficult moments in matches.

Naturally, such a successful loan spell has sparked conversation about the future. As the season progresses, speculation has begun to grow about whether Everton could realistically secure Grealish’s services on a permanent basis.

While it is still early days, the idea no longer feels far-fetched, especially given developments behind the scenes at Manchester City.

Renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has provided insight into the situation, suggesting that a permanent move may be possible under the right conditions. Speaking on the Men in Blazers podcast, Romano revealed that, according to his information, Grealish’s time at Manchester City is effectively over.

“I think it’s a possibility to find a solution with Manchester City,” Romano explained. “Because, what I’m told is, Jack Grealish has no way back at Manchester City. So, they believe that chapter is completely closed.”

Those comments will undoubtedly be encouraging for Everton supporters. If City have indeed drawn a line under Grealish’s future at the club, it opens the door for negotiations. Romano went on to highlight Grealish’s happiness at Everton, an important factor in any potential deal.

“And that’s good news for Everton,” he added. “He’s very happy at Everton. So, I think they have a chance to find a solution if all parties go in the same direction.”

Happiness is often an underrated element in footballing success, but in Grealish’s case, it appears to be pivotal. After years of uncertainty and limited involvement, he has found a club where he feels valued and trusted.

That sense of belonging has translated into performances on the pitch, strengthening the argument for a longer-term stay.

However, despite the optimism, several obstacles remain. Chief among them is the financial aspect of any potential transfer. Manchester City invested heavily in Grealish and, even if they are willing to move him on, they are unlikely to accept a cut-price deal lightly.

Everton, for their part, will need to balance ambition with financial prudence, particularly given the Premier League’s strict financial regulations.

The eventual fee demanded by City will likely determine whether a permanent deal is feasible. Everton may seek to negotiate a reduced price based on Grealish’s limited role at City and his desire to remain on Merseyside.

City, on the other hand, will want to recoup as much value as possible, even if they accept that the partnership has run its course.

Timing will also be crucial. Much will depend on how the second half of the season unfolds. If Grealish maintains his current form and continues to be a decisive figure for Everton, the club’s resolve to pursue a permanent deal will only strengthen. Conversely, any dip in performance or injury concerns could complicate matters.

For now, Everton are content to enjoy the benefits of having a rejuvenated Jack Grealish in their ranks. His loan spell has already exceeded expectations, providing moments of quality and inspiration that have lifted the team and its supporters alike.

Whether this chapter becomes a long-term story remains uncertain, but the foundations for a potential permanent move are clearly being laid.

As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on how negotiations develop behind the scenes. Grealish’s future, once clouded by doubt, now appears filled with possibility. For Everton, the chance to secure a player of his calibre on a permanent basis would represent a significant step forward in their ongoing project.

For Grealish himself, it could mark the beginning of a new era, defined not by what might have been, but by what he continues to become at a club where he feels truly at home.