Everton Set To Unveil Jack Grealish As New No.18 On Season-Long Loan

Jack Grealish is set to join Everton on a season-long loan and wear the number 18 shirt, with announcement imminent. The deal is expected to include availability for the opening Premier League match against Leeds United on Monday.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Everton have agreed a season-long loan with Manchester City for Grealish after the winger fell down the pecking order under Pep Guardiola. Reports in England say final details and medicals are being completed, with Everton planning to confirm the move in time for their opener. Some outlets add an option to buy of around £50 million, reflecting the club’s intent to make this a long-term solution if the loan works well. According to a previous update, Jack Grealish will have a medical check today before signing the loan deal with Everton.

WHY IT MATTERS FOR EVERTON

Everton finished 13th in the Premier League last season, stabilizing after two difficult years, but they struggled for creativity in key games. Grealish, 29, started only one Premier League match last season at City and missed the Club World Cup squad, but he remains an elite ball-carrier who can draw fouls and unlock low blocks. He was vital in City’s 2022-23 treble season, offering control and work rate on the left. Everton’s attack now blends Grealish’s craft with Dwight McNeil’s crossing, trying to compensate Calvert-Lewin’s departure, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s energy. This move gives Grealish minutes to push back into England contention ahead of next summer’s World Cup, as he is keen to push for a place in the squad.

FORM, FITNESS AND ROLE

Grealish’s numbers fell last season due to limited minutes, but his underlying strengths remain. He excels at carrying the ball into the final third, creating chances from the half-space, and retaining possession under pressure. Everton manager David Moyes values discipline without the ball, and Grealish’s pressing and tracking improved significantly at City. Expect him to start off the left in a 4-2-3-1, with license to drift inside, while overlapping full-backs provide width. Moyes is looking for Grealish to bring more creativity to Everton’s attack, which has been a priority given their previous season’s difficulties.

WHAT NEXT?

Everton begin their Premier League campaign at home to Leeds on Monday. Leeds return to the top flight after promotion and are targeting a mid-table start. Everton will want to especially improve their attacking output after only scoring 42 goals last season, with eyes on closing the gap to European spots early. Grealish is expected to be in the matchday squad if the registration is completed in time. The club will then look to integrate him quickly, with a tough run of August fixtures to define early momentum.