“Stumbling block”- Tottenham not looking to pursue a deal for £40m Man City star

Tottenham to Pass on Manchester City’s Jack Grealish as Club Shifts Focus to Alternative Attacking Targets

Tottenham Hotspur appear ready to walk away from the prospect of signing Manchester City playmaker Jack Grealish this summer, as the North London club explores more viable alternatives in the transfer market.

With the pre-season already underway and new head coach Thomas Frank now taking the reins at Hotspur Way, there is a growing sense of urgency around the club to reinforce key areas of the squad. Yet, the Lilywhites have made a sluggish start to the summer transfer window, a reality that has not gone unnoticed by the fanbase. Chairman Daniel Levy’s typically cautious and measured approach to transfer dealings has once again drawn criticism, particularly as other Premier League rivals have wasted no time in strengthening their squads.

Tottenham’s Europa League qualification has raised expectations ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, and if Spurs are serious about building on that success, decisive action is needed—especially in the final third of the pitch. The attacking department, in particular, is crying out for reinforcements. Last season, too many key forwards failed to deliver consistently, especially during decisive moments, and that shortcoming ultimately cost the team vital points in the league.

Reports had recently linked Spurs with a sensational move for Jack Grealish, the 29-year-old England international who has struggled to hit top form consistently since his big-money switch from Aston Villa to Manchester City. While Grealish remains a technically gifted and intelligent wide player, it appears Tottenham are not prepared to follow through on their initial interest.

Speaking on talkSPORT, reputable journalist Ben Jacobs offered insight into the situation. “Tottenham have discussed Grealish and, despite the fact that Mathys Tel has signed permanently… they could add another left-sided player too. Things are not advancing with Grealish at the moment,” Jacobs explained.

He further elaborated that wage concerns are playing a significant role in halting the pursuit. “The wage is a little bit of a stumbling block from Tottenham’s perspective, too. So, I don’t think they’re going to be in a position to bid for Jack Grealish just now, although they have held a conversation internally about that market opportunity.”

From Jacobs’ comments, it’s clear that while Tottenham did entertain the idea of signing Grealish, the club is not currently in a financial position to meet the midfielder’s high wage demands. Despite holding internal discussions about his potential availability, Spurs have opted not to progress talks at this stage.

In truth, this development may work out in Tottenham’s favour. Grealish, once heralded as one of the Premier League’s most electrifying attacking talents, has seen his form decline in recent seasons. At 29, his best years may be behind him, and his inconsistent performances for City over the past year have raised questions about whether he can justify the wages he currently commands.

For a club like Tottenham, which is trying to reshape its squad without jeopardizing long-term financial stability, such a move may have posed more risk than reward. As such, Daniel Levy and the recruitment team are now expected to explore more cost-effective and dynamic alternatives in the market.

One name already being discussed is RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons. The Dutch international, currently one of Europe’s most exciting young attacking midfielders, has attracted serious interest from several top clubs, including Spurs. With his flair, versatility, and ability to play across the front line, Simons would represent a far more future-proof investment.

Should Simons express a willingness to test himself in the Premier League, Tottenham must act decisively. Securing a player of his potential could transform their attacking unit and give Thomas Frank a crucial weapon in his tactical setup.

With the new season looming and other clubs continuing to make strides in the market, Tottenham cannot afford further delays. The decision to pass on Grealish might mark the end of one potential deal, but it could also be the beginning of a smarter, more forward-thinking recruitment strategy that better aligns with the club’s long-term ambitions.