Everton have fresh competition if they want to bring Jack Grealish back to the Hill Dickinson, with Sunderland making a late move for the Man City winger.
The 30-year-old spent last season on loan with Everton and remains a popular figure among supporters despite a foot injury ending his campaign in January.
Everton have stayed in contact since he returned to City.
Now Sunderland are trying to sign him.
Sky Sports report the Black Cats are exploring a loan deal, while David Ornstein reports they have submitted an offer which would see City cover part of Grealish’s salary.
There is also the possibility of a permanent move next summer, when his City contract expires.
Everton have kept in touch with Grealish
Everton chief executive Angus Kinnear spoke openly about Grealish last week.
“Jack is a player we’ve remained in contact with,” he told BBC Radio Merseyside.
Kinnear also pointed to Grealish’s decision to continue his rehabilitation with Everton after injury, despite not being obliged to do so.
“He’s a player who’s fallen in love with the right shade of blue,” he added.
Grealish made 22 appearances for Everton last season, scoring twice and providing six assists before his injury.
He has since returned to City’s first-team squad under Enzo Maresca and featured as a substitute in both the Community Shield defeat by Arsenal and Sunday’s Premier League win over Bournemouth.
There is still no indication that Everton have made an offer to bring him back.
Sunderland’s interest means they may now have to decide whether to do so.
Grealish knows Everton, enjoyed his time at the club and has retained a relationship with people at the Hill Dickinson.
For supporters hoping to see him back in royal blue, the question is whether that relationship will now turn into another deal.
For the latest on this and other Everton rumours/deals, follow our live transfer tracker.
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