Jack Grealish's dream Aston Villa return not off the table - but Man City learn what it would take to send England star back to boyhood club

The England international has found himself on the fringes of Pep Guardiola’s squad and was notably omitted from their Club World Cup roster, a clear signal that his place in the team has been lost. During the most recent Premier League campaign, the 29-year-old was handed just seven starts, a steep decline in involvement compared to previous seasons.

According to the Daily Mail,a potential homecoming to Villa Park is now being seriously considered, although a permanent deal looks unlikely as Grealish commands a hefty salary that may be difficult for the West Midlands club to accommodate outright. Therefore, a loan deal appears to be the most viable option if Villa are to bring their former talisman back.

However, even a loan deal would come with its own complications, particularly in light of Villa’s financial constraints and obligations under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). According to the latest financial figures, Villa’s wage-to-revenue ratio stands at an eye-watering 91 per cent for the 2023-24 season, making any additional salary commitments a delicate balancing act.

Premier League rivals Everton and Newcastle United have also been linked with a move for Grealish, while Bayer Leverkusen have entered the frame as a potential destination. The Bundesliga club, which are preparing for life without Florian Wirtz amid speculation over a Liverpool move, are said to have been encouraged by new manager Erik ten Hag to make a move for the English star, as he views him as an ideal successor to the Germany international.