The truth behind Everton's rumoured Jack Grealish transfer pursuit as Man City outcast seeks new home - revealed

Despite initial optimism about making a statement move, Everton now appear to be distancing itself from negotiations with Manchester City. This development marks another setback in what has become a frustrating transfer window for Everton, as several potential deals continue to stall.

Everton manager David Moyes, speaking during the club’s pre-season preparations in the United States, has expressed concern over the lack of meaningful progress in the transfer market. Addressing reporters ahead of their Premier League Summer Series clash against his former side, West Ham, Moyes admitted that efforts to bolster the squad with experienced players have so far fallen short.

"The truth is we're not getting a lot of the deals over the line at the moment, that's a fact," he said. "We're desperate to get things moving on because we know time's running out."

While Everton's interest in Grealish appears to be cooling, Napoli and West Ham remain very much in contention. Antonio Conte is understood to be an admirer of the England star and has already brought another former Manchester City player, Kevin De Bruyne, into his squad. The Italian giants, along with West Ham, are monitoring Grealish’s situation closely as City consider offloading the midfielder for a reported fee of around €45 million (£39m). Although City are open to a sale, a loan with a future purchase option remains a viable route for interested clubs.

Grealish, who currently earns approximately €10 million (£8.6m) annually, is reportedly willing to accept a reduced salary in order to secure regular football and a fresh start. This flexibility might still leave the door ajar for Everton should the club revisit the possibility later in the window.

Everton's pre-season has been underwhelming, marked by a goalless draw against League Two’s Accrington Stanley and a defeat at the hands of Championship outfit Blackburn Rovers. As the Toffees prepare to face West Ham again on Wednesday following a 3-0 loss to Bournemouth, questions linger over the team’s readiness for the new campaign. Moyes has been clear about his desire to bring experience into the squad, but progress has been slower than expected.