Manchester City is the only realistic destination for Manchester United target Jack Grealish

According to The Athletic (h/t The Express), Manchester City look set to trump Manchester United to the signing of Aston Villa skipper Jack Grealish.

The English international is one of the best midfielders in the league and was a part of the England side that lost in the European Championship final. Just 25, he is already a Premier League veteran and has the best years of his career ahead of him.

A number of clubs have been alerted to the midfielder’s future. Apart from the Manchester duo, the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are also interested. However, neither club can provide Grealish with the opportunity to compete in the UEFA Champions League or even the Europa League. Moving to North London is admittedly a step down at this point in time.

The 25-year-old was Villa’s top assist-getter last season and also chipped in with seven goals. Villa signed Emi Buendia last week, further fuelling speculation of an impending exit for Grealish. Whether that will prove to be the case remains to be seen.

United were interested in the 25-year-old last summer but was unable to sign him. It would appear that the ship has now set sail. Arsenal is looking for a replacement for Martin Odegaard, who has returned to Real Madrid upon the expiry of his loan deal. Securing Grealish would certainly be a coup for the Gunners.

City, who lost the UEFA Champions League final last season, are keen to strengthen themselves ahead of the next campaign. Apart from Grealish, English skipper Harry Kane is also on their radar. Neither player will come cheap but City are determined to go for both.

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Given that we have Edinson Cavani, Anthony Martial and even Mason Greenwood who can play up front, it would be prudent for us to prioritize the signing of Grealish. The English international’s arrival will also offset the potential loss of Paul Pogba, who could be moved on this summer.

With Jadon Sancho also on his way to Old Trafford, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could have an exciting brand of English stars to call upon. If Sancho was the star signing, getting Grealish would be the coup de grace.