Jack Grealish’s future at Manchester City remains far from certain. After spending last season on loan at Everton, the English midfielder could leave the Etihad Stadium once again before the transfer window closes, with Sunderland now emerging as a possible destination.

According to The Athletic, Sunderland are already in talks with Manchester City over a potential loan move for the midfielder. The deal could also include an option to buy next summer, when Grealish would enter the final stretch of his contract with the Citizens.

But there is another important factor: his salary.

Sunderland would reportedly want City to continue covering part of the player’s wages in order to make the deal possible.

Grealish Still Does Not Have a Guaranteed Role

Grealish’s situation is nothing new.

The Englishman has gradually lost prominence in Manchester and does not appear to be an undisputed starter under Enzo Maresca either. The manager used him as a substitute against Arsenal in the Community Shield and also against Bournemouth at the start of the season.

At 30, Grealish needs minutes and consistency.

Last season, he tried to find both during his loan spell at Everton, where he recorded two goals and six assists in 22 appearances before a stress fracture in his foot brought his campaign to a halt.

Now, another opportunity could emerge for him to remain in the Premier League.

Sunderland Emerge as a New Option

For Sunderland, bringing in a player with Grealish’s experience would represent a significant addition to their attack.

Despite his difficult recent seasons, the Englishman still possesses qualities that are difficult to find: his ability to carry the ball, draw fouls, operate between the lines and retain possession under pressure. In a team where he could regain a leading role, his quality could still make a difference.

His situation at City also means another loan could make sense for all parties involved.

Manchester City paid around €117 million to sign him from Aston Villa in 2021. Since then, Grealish has made 159 appearances for the club and was part of a historic period that included winning the Champions League in 2023.

His current situation, however, is very different.

With limited minutes and no guaranteed place in Maresca’s plans, another departure is beginning to look increasingly possible.

After Everton, Jack Grealish could be packing his bags once again. This time, Sunderland could provide the destination where he attempts to rediscover the consistency he has been missing in Manchester.

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