Reports suggest that Chelsea is expressing strong interest in securing the services of England international Jack Grealish, particularly due to uncertainties surrounding his future at Manchester City.
Despite enjoying regular playing time under Pep Guardiola last season, the 28-year-old has experienced a decrease in his appearances this season, starting in only 10 Premier League games during the 2023-24 campaign.
This decline has sparked speculation about a possible departure from City during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Grealish’s transfer to Manchester City in 2021 commanded a staggering fee of €117.5 million, marking a significant move in his career. However, his current Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) does not align with that figure.
Nevertheless, it is anticipated that City will demand a substantial fee for his transfer, considering his talent and potential impact on the pitch.
According to insights shared by Chelsea journalist Simon Phillips, there have been internal discussions within Chelsea regarding the potential acquisition of Grealish.
Phillips revealed on his Substack page that Grealish’s name has been circulating within Chelsea circles.
Given his limited role at City and recent links to his former club Aston Villa, there is growing speculation within the industry that he may become available for transfer in the upcoming summer window.
Chelsea’s successful history of transfers with City, having secured players like Raheem Sterling and Cole Palmer at reasonable fees, further fuels this speculation.
While a summer move for Grealish to Chelsea may appear improbable at the moment, it presents an intriguing possibility for the Blues.
Grealish’s experience at the highest level aligns with the preferences of Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino, potentially offering an upgrade over current players like Mykhailo Mudryk, who has failed to meet expectations since joining the club.
Additionally, players such as Raheem Sterling, also from Manchester City, have encountered difficulties adapting to Chelsea’s system, indicating possible departures.
Grealish’s arrival could potentially bring about a shift in Chelsea’s possession-based style of play, utilizing his skills to their advantage.
Within Pochettino’s attacking framework, Grealish could rediscover the form that made him a standout performer at Aston Villa.
Considering the potential impact of Grealish’s inclusion in Chelsea’s lineup, there are numerous configurations to consider.
Djordje Petrovic is likely to remain the first-choice goalkeeper, supported by a formidable back four consisting of Reece James, Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, and Ben Chilwell.
In midfield, the trio of Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, and Romeo Lavia, despite Lavia’s injury concerns this season, could provide a dynamic and creative midfield setup for Chelsea in the future.
Moving forward, Grealish would be positioned on the left flank, complementing the likes of Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer, who would operate on the right and in the center, respectively.
Palmer has demonstrated significant potential since his arrival, further bolstering Chelsea’s attacking prowess.