Jack Grealish on Napoli’s Radar as Conte Eyes Manchester City Outcast

Former Chelsea and Spurs Boss a Big Fan of Grealish Amid Serie A Title Ambitions

Jack Grealish’s Manchester City story may be heading for its final chapter. After three seasons at the Etihad, the England international is once again the subject of summer transfer speculation—and this time, it feels more serious than ever.

With City falling short in their bid to make Premier League history with a fifth straight title, Pep Guardiola is expected to reshape his squad ahead of the 2025-26 campaign. And Grealish, once the poster boy of a £100 million revolution, may soon find himself surplus to requirements.

One of the clubs keeping close tabs on the situation? Serie A hopefuls Napoli, now managed by the ever-demanding and tactically astute Antonio Conte.

Grealish Struggling for Impact Under Guardiola

The 2024-25 season has been a difficult one for Grealish. Once a guaranteed starter, the 29-year-old has fallen down the pecking order in Guardiola’s meticulously assembled squad.

In total, Grealish has made just seven Premier League starts this season—a figure that starkly contrasts with the expectations surrounding him after his record-breaking move from Aston Villa. While he’s featured in 31 matches across all competitions, much of that involvement has been limited to cameo appearances from the bench. With just three goals to his name all season, it’s hard to argue he’s delivered the kind of output expected from a player of his price and profile.

For all his technical grace, ball control, and ability to draw fouls, Grealish’s influence has waned—and there’s a sense that Guardiola may be ready to cut ties and invest in fresher, more dynamic attacking options.

Conte Wants Grealish at Napoli

One manager who still believes in Grealish’s qualities is Antonio Conte. Now at the helm of Napoli and aiming to return the club to the summit of Italian football, the former Chelsea and Tottenham boss is said to be a “big fan” of the Englishman’s unique blend of flair and tactical intelligence.

Conte, who’s known for demanding intensity and discipline from his players, may seem like an unlikely admirer. But his time in the Premier League gave him a front-row seat to Grealish’s talents. And with Napoli seeking more creative spark in wide areas, the City winger could be the kind of player to thrive in Serie A under the right guidance.

Grealish, for his part, is believed to be open to the idea of moving abroad rather than staying in England. After nearly a decade in the Premier League spotlight, a fresh challenge in Italy—with its slower tempo and tactical richness—could be exactly what he needs to reignite his career.

Scottish Influence in Italy Grows

Jack Grealish Manchester City 2024-25

Should Grealish make the move, he wouldn’t be the only British export currently plying his trade in Serie A. Former Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay has enjoyed a resurgence in Italy, anchoring the midfield of a revitalised Roma side chasing down silverware.

Likewise, Scotland international Billy Gilmour has impressed with Fiorentina, rediscovering the form that once made him Chelsea’s brightest midfield prospect. Both players have adjusted well to life in Italy, and their success could help convince Grealish that the move is more opportunity than risk.

Having familiar faces in the league would also ease the transition for the City winger—especially with a manager like Conte keen to build a squad in his image, but with players who understand the demands of the English game.

Dortmund and Milan Also Interested

Napoli aren’t alone in the race for Grealish’s signature. Borussia Dortmund are also reportedly monitoring the situation, with the Bundesliga giants showing interest in bringing the England international to Germany.

Dortmund, currently in a period of transition themselves, are looking to inject more creativity into their attack and believe Grealish could offer something different—particularly if they lose Jadon Sancho again in the summer or struggle to hold on to key attackers.

AC Milan, meanwhile, are another suitor. The Rossoneri already have Kyle Walker on loan from Manchester City and have shown a willingness to work with the Premier League champions on transfers. Milan would likely need to shift one of their existing wide players to make room, but Grealish’s versatility and experience make him an appealing option.

Offers from MLS and Saudi Arabia Not a Priority—Yet

McTominay Napoli

As with many Premier League stars on the fringes of their clubs, there is also interest in Grealish from further afield. MLS sides are reportedly preparing packages, while clubs in the Saudi Pro League are expected to test the waters with big-money bids.

But sources close to the player insist that Grealish still views himself as a top-tier European footballer—and with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, he wants to stay in contention for England’s squad.

Grealish knows that a move outside of Europe would likely dim his international prospects, especially with the competition for attacking places in Gareth Southgate’s side as fierce as ever.

What’s Next for Grealish?

The summer promises to be pivotal for Jack Grealish. Still under contract with Manchester City, any transfer will require negotiation and agreement on all sides. But with Guardiola reportedly planning a squad refresh and the winger eager for regular football, the pieces are starting to fall into place.

Whether it’s Napoli, Dortmund, Milan, or somewhere else entirely, Grealish seems poised to start a new chapter. A change of scenery, a different pace of life, and the chance to play a central role again could be just what he needs to recapture the spark that once made him England’s most exciting attacking talent.