Real Madrid and Barcelona join Man Utd in £60m transfer race for Jack Grealish after sparkling Aston Villa form

Posted Thursday, February 06, 2020 by Thesun.co.uk

Real Madrid and Barcelona join Man Utd in £60m transfer race for Jack Grealish after sparkling Aston Villa form
Aston Villa's Man Utd target Jack Grealish is now being linked with Spain's big two clubs, Barcelona and Real Madrid Credit: Getty Images - Getty

BARCELONA and Real Madrid have joined Manchester United's hunt for Aston Villa's attacking midfielder Jack Grealish.

Both Spanish giants are tracking the exciting 24-year-old as they identify their top transfer targets for the summer.

Their interest will be a major blow to United, who have made Grealish their No 1 option to become the new playmaker at Old Trafford.

Grealish’s sparkling form has convinced a number of Premier League and European clubs he is the real deal.

And he has not escaped notice from Spain's top two clubs.

Now Villa are steeling themselves for offers at the end of this campaign.

Birmingham-born Grealish is likely to have his pick over who he wants to join, whether or not he helps Villa avoid relegation this season.

United are understood to have prioritised Grealish’s capture above that of one-cap England ace James Maddison, 23, who is thought to be close to agreeing a new Leicester contract.

But though United would have no trouble paying any fee Villa demand — which could be as high as £60million — they could be hampered if they are unable to offer him Champions League football.

If United fail to finish in the top four or win the Europa League, they would have less appeal than their biggest rivals in the battle for his signature.

Grealish was even linked with neighbours City early last month.

Etihad chief Pep Guardiola said then: "He’s incredible. A top player.

"I’m happy he (initially) stayed in the Championship to defend his club.

"He’s a talented player who always creates something. An exceptional player but too expensive for Manchester!"