Gareth Barry discusses Jack Grealish’s future at Aston Villa

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Gareth Barry has told JOE’s All To Play For podcast that Aston Villa failing to qualify for European football may affect Jack Grealish’s future come the summer window – amid reported interest from Manchester City.

Grealish, 25, has been in stunning form for Villa this season – after impressing last season. He has taken his stats to a new level this time around, having a hand in 15 goals during 17 league and cup appearances.

The Independent claim that Manchester City are interested in Grealish, with Pep Guardiola and Kevin De Bruyne backing a move. The Telegraph have claimed that Grealish is rated at £100million, and will not be sold for less.

Ex-Villa and Man City midfielder Barry was asked about Grealish’s future and he thinks that Villa will struggle to keep hold of the player – stating that his situation is different to that of Declan Rice, given he is slightly older.

“It will be on his mind, if moving will cement his England place,” Barry said. “He is captaining his boyhood club, but he is a bit older than Declan Rice – and Villa will be under pressure to get into Europe.

TBR’s view – Grealish has got to consider summer exit

As Barry says, Rice is a different scenario. The West Ham midfielder has only just turned 22 and would be better advised to continue impressing for the Hammers before contemplating an exit.

But on the other hand, Grealish is now 25 and is set to enter his prime. He needs to be playing Champions League football and a move to one of the top-six clubs is the right decision – unless Villa qualify for Europe.