Newcastle United were heavily linked with Jack Grealish this summer, but opted against a deal.
The England international was a man in demand during the summer transfer window, with Manchester City willing to let the £100million man leave.
That resulted in Newcastle United being linked with Jack Grealish, but that is as far as it went.
Instead, Grealish joined Everton on loan. They have the option to sign him permanently next summer, and that is likely something they will consider given how well he has started on Merseyside.
But Newcastle United were right not to sign Grealish, despite what certain pundits told them about the player they will face on Saturday.
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What Newcastle United were told about Jack Grealish this summer
Given the speculation of Grealish potentially moving to St James’ Park, there were plenty of pundits giving their verdict on him heading to the North East.
Jeff Stelling thought Grealish was perfect for Newcastle United, particularly after Joao Pedro snubbed them to move to Chelsea.
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He told TalkSPORT in June 2025: “If I’m Newcastle now, this is off the top of my head. He’s not exactly the same player, but if I’m Newcastle, I’m looking at Jack Grealish and thinking ‘what a job he can do for us’.
“I’ve no idea how much he’s gonna cost and obviously comes with big, big wages.”
Jack Grealish in action for Everton against Manchester United.
Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images
That was a sentiment shared by former Premier League goalkeeper Ben Foster, who discussed Grealish signing for Newcastle on the Football Fill-in podcast alongside ex-West Brom defender Paul Robinson.
After Robinson said Grealish should join Eddie Howe’s side, Foster responded: “I agree. He’s got a point to prove. It’s so clear and obvious that the manager wants rid of him. Wherever he goes, Grealish will have a massive point to prove, and I think we’re going to see some proper fireworks from him.”
Newcastle United did not need Jack Grealish, but must now avoid Everton humiliation
Ultimately, Newcastle did not pursue a move for Grealish. That did not come as a surprise for the Toon Army, as Grealish was not the type of player they needed.
While there is no doubt he would have been a hit in black and white, the Magpies had other priorities.
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Anthony Gordon looks to control the ball during Newcastle United's Champions League game against Marseille.
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Grealish plays his best football on the left wing, but Newcastle already have Harvey Barnes and Anthony Gordon out there. What Howe needed was a right winger, with Anthony Elanga becoming one of Newcastle’s most expensive signings ever at £55million.
He is yet to prove his worth, but that is not to say Newcastle should have targeted Grealish instead. He simply did not suit their needs, despite his undisputed quality.
The 30-year-old has been excellent for Everton, and Newcastle will hope that does not continue on Saturday when they come face to face. Given the rumours, it would be rather embarrassing if he proves to be the difference maker.
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