Grealish favours Everton return as City transfer saga nears resolution

Jack Grealish would prefer to return to Everton if he departs Manchester City before the transfer deadline, according to sources. The 30-year-old winger has made only two substitute appearances for City this season, prompting speculation about his future as the window closes on Tuesday.

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has indicated he is open to a sale, stating that he speaks with Grealish almost every day. Maresca suggested the situation will be resolved in the next four to five days, noting that it is his duty to help the player give his best while he remains at the club.

Everton chief executive Angus Kinnear recently confirmed that the club has remained in contact with the player. Grealish spent the previous season on loan at Everton, where he scored twice and provided six assists in 20 appearances before a season-ending foot injury in January.

Aston Villa are also believed to be interested in re-signing their former captain, although City sources say there have been no concrete offers from any club so far this summer. The potential move remains a matter of preference rather than a confirmed agreement, with no formal bids received yet.

Meanwhile, Manchester City are reportedly interested in signing Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye. The Senegal international, whose contract runs until 2029, has rejected multiple contract offers and a move to Saudi side Al-Hilal.

Everton, under manager David Moyes, are under no immediate pressure to sell Ndiaye but are likely to demand a fee in the region of £70m to consider a sale. This potential counter-move adds a layer of complexity to the negotiations as both clubs navigate their respective transfer strategies.