Grealish set for Goodison return as Everton strengthen attack
Everton have reached an agreement with Manchester City to bring Jack Grealish back on a season-long loan, with a medical scheduled before the transfer deadline. The 30-year-old previously spent part of last season at Goodison Park, contributing two goals and six assists before a foot injury ended his campaign. The move is part of a busy deadline day for Everton, who are also closing in on Folarin Balogun and expect Iliman Ndiaye to depart for City.
Grealish's return to Goodison Park comes after a difficult spell at Manchester City, where he has made only two substitute appearances this season under Enzo Maresca. His previous loan at Everton yielded two goals and six assists across 20 matches before a January foot injury cut his campaign short. Everton chief executive Angus Kinnear confirmed the club had stayed in touch with the winger throughout.
The move is part of a broader deadline-day reshuffle. Everton are also pursuing Monaco striker Folarin Balogun for £40m, while Iliman Ndiaye is expected to join City for £65m. A separate attempt to re-sign Richarlison from Tottenham has stalled over personal terms, and defender Nathan Patterson may depart for Serie A side Torino.
This transfer could reshape Everton's attacking identity mid-season, potentially lifting fan morale and improving their Premier League survival prospects. For Grealish, regular playing time may revive his England international ambitions. The flurry of deadline-day activity also highlights how top-flight clubs increasingly use the loan market to manage squad depth and financial constraints, a trend that affects supporters' expectations and players' career trajectories alike.