Jack Grealish’s move to Man City saw the Premier League transfer record smashed and the playmaker could now make his debut in Saturday’s Community Shield at Wembley
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The most expensive signings in Premier League history
Jack Grealish has travelled with his new Manchester City team-mates ahead of his debut just 24 hours after signing.
The playmaker became the most expensive Englishman ever this week when he completed a £100m move from Aston Villa.
Grealish will bolster the Premier League champions as they look to retain their title.
The midfielder will strengthen an attacking line that already includes the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan, Riyad Mahrez and Raheem Sterling.
Pep Guardiola made Grealish his top summer target, alongside Harry Kane, and has smashed City’s transfer record to get him.
The 25-year-old, who has signed a six year deal, could now make his bow in Saturday’s Community Shield against Leicester At Wembley.
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Image:
Eamonn and James Clarke)
“Playing under the best manager in the world was something I couldn’t really turn down,” Grealish told mancity.com.
“When I came here this morning I had a long chat with him about positions. It was all football.
“It was such a positive chat. It shows why I want to play under him.
“I have heard nothing but good words about him from the lads at England and I can’t wait to get started.
“In the end it was something I couldn’t turn down. Let’s hope it’s a successful one.”
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Image:
Eamonn and James Clarke)
He also added: “It was obviously a difficult few months because I have been an Aston Villa fan for my whole life, but when I spoke to the manager here and you see what type of players they have got here, in the end it was something I couldn’t say no to.
“Competing for major trophies is something that I wanted to do. It was something I couldn’t turn down.”
City director of football Txiki Begiristain said: “Jack’s development over the past few seasons both for club and country has been plain for everybody to see.
“His natural talent together with his commitment to improve as a player has seen him become one of the most exciting attacking players in world football today.”
Grealish will wear the No 10 shirt recently vacated by Sergio Aguero.
The Argentine’s departure means City’s only striker is Gabriel Jesus which is why they have an interest in Harry Kane.
Tottenham are determined to hold on to the forward despite him wanting to seek pastures new.
Barcelona’s announcement on Thursday signalling Lionel Messi’s departure has ignited speculation of a move to the Etihad.
But Guardiola, who worked with the Argentine in Spain, has distanced City from a move.
