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Everton legend Peter Reid has described Jack Grealish’s relaxed attitude — including his occasional enjoyment of a pint — as “quite refreshing” in today’s footballing world. Speaking exclusively to GOAL, Reid expressed hope that Everton could secure the Manchester City winger permanently in the upcoming summer transfer window, bringing back a player who made a strong impression during his loan spell at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Grealish’s loan stint with the Toffees in the 2025-26 season was promising but unfortunately cut short due to injury. The playmaker, who had fallen down Pep Guardiola’s pecking order at Manchester City, joined Everton under David Moyes’ management seeking more game time and a fresh challenge in the North West.

He made an instant impact, earning the Premier League Player of the Month award for August after a string of standout performances and assists that reignited his creative spark. However, a stress fracture that required foot surgery sidelined him from mid-January, prematurely ending his campaign and ruling him out of England’s World Cup plans. The 30-year-old, who has 39 international caps, saw his hopes of representing the Three Lions in North America dashed.

Despite that setback, Everton are reportedly eager to make Grealish’s stay permanent. Whether the Toffees can negotiate a deal below Manchester City’s £50 million ($67m) valuation remains uncertain, but the club’s intent is clear.

When asked if he’d like to see Grealish return to Merseyside, Reid, speaking on behalf of BUDDS — the UK’s leading auctioneers of sports memorabilia — said: “I think he’s top drawer. I love his personality. People criticise him for having a pint now and then, but I find that quite refreshing because I’m from that era.”

Reid added: “He brings personality, but more importantly, he brings quality on the pitch. He can handle the ball well. In today’s game, they call that position a number 10. I think he’d do well there, and if you ask me, I’m a big fan of Grealish — a big fan.”

Discussing Manchester City’s £50 million price tag — a fee set in Grealish’s loan terms — Reid admitted it’s steep for a player turning 31 in September. He continued: “Of course, that’s a lot of money. But if City are restructuring under Enzo Maresca and Grealish isn’t part of the plans, then a deal could be done. From an Everton point of view, I’d love to see it happen.”

Reid also praised Everton’s recent transfer business, highlighting Iliman Ndiaye, who has quickly become a fan favourite for his creativity. The former midfielder said: “From an Everton perspective, I’d like Ndiaye to stay. He creates and scores goals. Recruitment is key — we need players who can link up with him. But he’s a quality player.”

He continued: “I watched the Manchester City match this year — in the first half, Ndiaye was unplayable. He was outstanding, created chances, though we didn’t take them. That shows his level. He’s a top player, and I hope Everton can keep him.”

Reid also acknowledged the contributions of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who joined from Chelsea in 2025 for £29 million ($39m). When asked if the midfielder gets the recognition he deserves, Reid replied: “Good player. And honestly, James Garner too. He’s been unlucky not to make the World Cup squad.”

Reid added: “I remember the games against Forest when Garner faced [Elliot] Anderson — who’s top drawer — and Garner did really well. I rate both of them highly. Everton still need to improve their attacking end, but Dewsbury-Hall and Garner are both quality footballers.”

Garner has already followed in Grealish’s footsteps by breaking into the senior England squad. Although he missed out on Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup selection, he will be cheering on his teammates from afar as England aim to end their 60-year wait for international silverware, last achieved in 1966.

In a nod to that historic triumph, Martin Peters’ spare shirt from the 4-2 World Cup final victory over West Germany will soon go under the hammer, expected to fetch between £30,000 and £50,000. The BUDDS World Cup Auction is set for 25 June 2026, with an online timed auction beginning on 2 June, offering fans a chance to own a piece of football history.