Bayer Leverkusen are eyeing up Jack Grealish as a potential replacement for Florian Wirtz, who is on the brink of a record-breaking move to Liverpool, according to reports. The German outfit are in talks with the Reds and have turned down several offers, but the Premier League champions have come back with another bid that is closer to Leverkusen's £126million asking price.
Leverkusen have already lost Jeremie Frimpong to Anfield and, should Wirtz depart, it would leave new boss Erik ten Hag with a substantial budget to bolster his team. Grealish has been pinpointed as the type of creative force who could step into Wirtz's shoes. The 29-year-old has slipped down the pecking order at Manchester City and there is a mutual understanding that a move away would be beneficial with City ready to get his wages off the books. Grealish has been a pitoval player in the past and Leverkusen may believe they can help him regain his best form.
According to The Sun, Ten Hag himself is a fan, and those close to the player believe he is open to a move abroad to rejuvenate his career.
Tottenham, Newcastle, and his former club Aston Villa are all said to be interested in the player, who was bought for £100million in 2021. Italian champions Napoli have also been linked with the attacking midfielder.
Manchester City are willing to incur a substantial loss on their record signing, but still expect around £40m before considering his departure. A loan move has also been suggested, however, Grealish's £300,000-a-week salary may deter potential suitors.
Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that Grealish requires regular playing time, despite his sporadic use of the player. He said: "Of course, Jack has to play. He's an unbelievable player that has to play football every three days.
"It didn't happen this season and last season either. He needs to do it, with us or another place." Guardiola also added: "It's nothing personal with Jack. I'm the person who fought for him to come here and the person who fought for him to stay here this season."