Phil Foden is reportedly set to join Jack Grealish in leaving Manchester City this summer, with Arsenal emerging as a potential destination. TalkSPORT host and former Premier League striker Tony Cascarino indicated that both players could exit the Etihad Stadium as the club continues to invest heavily in new signings.
The signs are clear for Jack Grealish, who has been placed on the transfer market by City after being excluded from their Club World Cup squad. Despite City reducing his transfer fee to £50 million, there have been no offers for the £100 million midfielder so far.
Jack Grealish has been linked with moves to Tottenham and Everton, but Arsenal could also be in the mix, especially given manager Mikel Arteta’s connections to City. However, when asked about the possibility of Grealish strengthening Arsenal’s squad, Cascarino suggested that Foden is the more likely candidate to leave City.
“Obviously Arteta worked with Phil Foden at Man City, and for whatever reason, he just hasn’t hit the heights we know he can this season,” Cascarino noted. “From winning the Football Writers’ Player of the Year the season before, his performances this year have not lived up to expectations. With all the spending happening at City, it wouldn’t surprise me if Foden is allowed to leave.”
While Jack Grealish’s season was marred by injuries and off-field issues, Foden has also faced challenges, admitting in January that he felt mentally and physically exhausted. “I’ve had a lot of things going on off the pitch,” he shared with the Manchester Evening News. “Sometimes, there are things in life that are bigger than football. I’ve struggled a little, but I hope to get my head right for next season.”
With Foden’s diminishing role in the City squad and the upcoming World Cup, Cascarino emphasized the necessity for Foden to secure regular playing time next season, much like Jack Grealish. “At just 26, he’s still got a lot to offer,” Cascarino remarked. “This has been a disappointing year for him, but he’s a talented player who doesn’t want to be in and out of a squad.”
Manchester City has spent nearly £300 million over the last two transfer windows, bringing in several new players, which might force them to part ways with some existing talents. Cascarino highlighted the potential for Foden to be one of those players, especially with Arsenal needing more competition for Gabriel Martinelli on the left wing. “Trossard has played there, but they need to add someone who can be a first choice,” he said, suggesting that Foden could fit that bill perfectly.
