Steve Bruce has said Aston Villa don’t want to lose Tottenham target Jack Grealish this summer but will have to.
Grealish emerged as a top transfer target for Spurs last month, with some reports suggesting an offer had of around £15 million had been made.
Those reports were later denied, but it is believed Grealish is keen on joining Tottenham and a deal will be done once a fee is agreed.
Spurs allegedly don’t want to pay more than £20 million for the 22-year-old, although Villa are said to be holding out for around £30 million.
But in an interview with Sky Sports News, Villa boss Bruce hinted the Championship club aren’t in the best negotiating position.
Villa’s financial troubles mean they will be forced to sell some of their stars this summer, and Bruce all but confirmed Grealish will be one of those heading for the exit door.
“I have enjoyed working with Jack, and Jack is the obvious one that clubs [are going to target] because he had a wonderful six months,” said Bruce.
“He reminded everybody as a 22-year-old what a very good player he is. On another day at Wembley (Play-Off final versus Fulham) he could have scored one of the great Wembley goals.
“He is a special talent, a real special talent, and yes, you don’t want to lose him but the inevitable thing is we have to. We have to – to keep the club up and running and keep it in line with Financial Fair Play.”
Because of Villa’s money problems, Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is likely to continue attempting to sign Grealish for as litle as possible.
For that reason, I can see this one dragging on until the close of the transfer window.
