Grealish transfer poses major challenge for Man City

Manchester City have already ticked several boxes in the transfer market – at least when it comes to arrivals. But the matter of outgoings remains unresolved, and with a looming court case that could see the club relegated, the pressure is mounting.

The most complex situation concerns Grealish. Once the club's marquee signing and the most expensive player in their history, the England international now finds himself surplus to requirements.

Pep Guardiola has struggled to find a role for him in the current setup, and the player's influence has waned over the past season. As a result, the Sky Blues are actively looking to move him on.

But offloading Grealish will be no easy feat. City paid €117.5 million for him, and his wage demands are substantial – pricing out most potential suitors. He is also eager to regain the central role he enjoyed during the treble-winning campaign.

Opportunities within the Premier League's so-called Big Six appear limited, and a return to former club Aston Villa or a move to Newcastle seems unlikely.

The most realistic option appears to be David Moyes' Everton, although, as reported by the Liverpool Echo, it remains only a tentative possibility.

What is certain is that City will not recoup anything close to what they paid for him. His market value has dropped significantly this season – so much so that he was not even included in the squad for the Club World Cup.