City's Grealish Conundrum: Wages Complicate St James' Park Switch

Newcastle United are keeping tabs on Jack Grealish's future at Manchester City, though the England winger does not feature prominently in the Magpies' summer recruitment plans.

Sources close to the Tyneside club confirm recruitment staff are monitoring Grealish's availability as the 29-year-old appears destined for departure from the Etihad Stadium. The Magpies would evaluate potential terms should circumstances prove attractive, yet no formal approach is anticipated.

The England international fails to address Newcastle's three primary summer objectives: a goalkeeper, central defender, and right-wing attacker. Whilst Grealish possesses versatility, his recent appearances have predominantly come from the left flank where Newcastle already boast Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes.

Financial considerations present significant obstacles. City reportedly value Grealish at a minimum £60 million, representing a substantial portion of Newcastle's summer budget. The Magpies prefer strengthening priority positions rather than areas of existing depth.

Loan arrangements have been suggested, yet these would demand considerable commitment. City would require substantial upfront fees alongside Grealish's reported £300,000 weekly salary - wages that would eclipse Newcastle's current highest earner by considerable margin. The club maintains strict salary structures and would not breach existing parameters for temporary acquisitions.