Chelsea is reportedly showing keen interest in acquiring the services of England international Jack Grealish, especially considering his uncertain future at Manchester City. Despite being a regular under Pep Guardiola last year, the 28-year-old has seen a decline in playing time this season, starting only 10 Premier League games in 2023-24. This has led to speculations about a potential summer departure from City.
Grealish’s transfer to Manchester City in 2021 for a whopping €117.5 million was a significant move, but his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) doesn’t match that figure currently. However, it’s expected that City would demand a substantial fee for his transfer, given his talent and potential impact on the field.
According to insights shared by Chelsea journalist Simon Phillips, there have been internal discussions within Chelsea regarding Grealish. Phillips mentioned on his Substack page that Grealish’s name has been circulating within Chelsea circles. Given his bit-part role at City and recent links to his former club Aston Villa, there’s a growing belief in the industry that he might be available for transfer in the upcoming summer window. Chelsea’s positive transfer history with City, having acquired players like Raheem Sterling and Cole Palmer at reasonable fees, adds to the speculation.
While a summer move for Grealish to Chelsea might seem unlikely at the moment, it presents an intriguing prospect for the Blues. Grealish’s experience at the top level aligns with what Mauricio Pochettino desires, potentially offering an upgrade over current players like Mykhailo Mudryk, who hasn’t lived up to expectations since joining.
Moreover, players like Raheem Sterling, also from Man City, have faced challenges adapting to Chelsea’s setup, hinting at possible exits. Grealish’s arrival could bring about a shift in Chelsea’s possession-based play, leveraging his skills to their advantage. In Pochettino’s attacking system, Grealish could rediscover the form that made him a standout at Aston Villa.
Considering how Chelsea’s lineup could change with Grealish’s inclusion, there are several potential configurations. Djordje Petrovic would likely continue as the first-choice goalkeeper, supported by a solid back four of Reece James, Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, and Ben Chilwell.
The midfield trio of Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, and Romeo Lavia, though hindered by Lavia’s injury concerns this season, could offer a dynamic and creative midfield setup in the future.
Upfront, Grealish would slot in on the left flank, complementing Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer on the right and center, respectively. Palmer has shown promise since his arrival, adding to the potential firepower of Chelsea’s attack.
Overall, while Grealish’s move to Chelsea remains speculative, it presents an exciting narrative for fans and pundits alike, imagining the impact he could have on the team’s dynamics and performance on the field.