Everton’s Premier League campaign continues to gather momentum as the Toffees prepare for a crucial home clash against Bournemouth, riding high on a five-match unbeaten streak and buoyed by recent transfer moves. However, the shadow of Jack Grealish’s injury looms large over Goodison Park, with the England international’s season on Merseyside likely over due to a stress fracture in his foot. As the club navigates both on-field challenges and off-field negotiations, fans and pundits alike are watching closely to see how the team adapts and what the future holds for Grealish and Everton alike.
Jack Grealish’s loan move from Manchester City to Everton was meant to inject creativity and experience into David Moyes’ side, but fate had other ideas. The 30-year-old forward sustained a stress fracture in his foot, a setback that could sideline him for the remainder of the 2025-2026 season. This injury not only deprives Everton of a marquee player but also presents a financial headache, as the club is paying Grealish’s wages without insurance coverage due to the nature of the injury.
Despite this setback, optimism remains among Everton’s hierarchy. Former chief executive Keith Wyness, who served at Goodison Park from 2004 to 2009 and now advises elite clubs, believes a permanent deal for Grealish is still on the cards—and at a surprisingly reduced price. "I still believe that Jack will come and sign with Everton next year. I think City will have to reduce considerably the fee that they’re looking at. I think he will have to reduce considerably his wages. And Everton, of course, are taking the loss right now. But in the end, I think a fit Jack next year, you know, refreshed," Wyness stated on the Inside Track podcast, as reported by Football Insider.
Wyness pointed out that Grealish’s last two seasons at Manchester City saw limited playing time, which could work in Everton’s favor. "He is not overworked in terms of his body as such for his age. So he’s still got some freshness left in those big calves. So let’s see if we can get something done, and hopefully, he gets fit. The main thing is he gets fit and he gets his foot sorted out. It is a difficult injury, stress fractures, and it will take time. So yes, think a good pre-season and getting back in for next year, but I think there’ll be ways to get the financial deal done, but everybody’s going to have to take that big cut," Wyness added.
Everton’s front office is reportedly targeting a £20 million transfer fee for Grealish in the summer window, a figure that would require significant compromise from Manchester City, who have made clear that Grealish is not part of Pep Guardiola’s future plans. For Grealish, a wage reduction will likely be necessary if he wishes to continue his career on Merseyside. The situation remains fluid, but both clubs appear motivated to find a solution that suits all parties.
In the meantime, Everton have acted swiftly to address their attacking options. The club secured a loan move for Tyrique George from Chelsea, bringing in the 20-year-old forward to fill the void left by Grealish’s absence. George made an immediate impact, coming off the bench to help Everton overturn a one-goal deficit and claim victory at Craven Cottage against Fulham. The win marked the second successive season the Toffees have triumphed at Fulham’s ground, underscoring their growing resilience under Moyes.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, another standout signing this season, found the net against Fulham, further cementing his status as one of the league’s most astute acquisitions. Everton’s ability to bounce back from adversity was on full display, with David Moyes’ tactical adjustments and the contributions of new arrivals like George proving decisive. The Toffees’ 2-1 win not only extended their unbeaten run to five Premier League matches but also moved them within seven points of the coveted top four and just two points behind local rivals Liverpool.
Looking ahead, Everton are set to host Bournemouth at Goodison Park, aiming to capitalize on their strong form and the relative health of their squad. Remarkably, Jack Grealish remains the only Everton player currently sidelined, giving Moyes a nearly full-strength roster to choose from as they seek to keep their European ambitions alive. "Moyes will be frustrated to be without one of his best players, but he can also be glad his squad is so close to full strength ahead of a clash with Bournemouth," noted recent coverage.
Bournemouth, on the other hand, are grappling with a spate of injuries that threaten to derail their campaign. Five key players are set to miss the Everton clash: Justin Kluivert (knee injury, expected return April 11, 2026), Marcus Tavernier (thigh injury, expected return February 28, 2026), Ben Gannon-Doak (thigh injury, expected return February 21, 2026), Tyler Adams (knee injury, currently being assessed), and Julio Soler (injury unspecified). The absence of attacking threats like Kluivert and Tavernier, in particular, will test manager Andoni Iraola’s tactical flexibility and squad depth.
Bournemouth’s recent form has been mixed. They managed a hard-fought draw against Aston Villa, clawing back from behind to secure a point, but have struggled with consistency. Everton, by contrast, recently defeated Aston Villa and appear to be hitting their stride at a critical juncture. The upcoming fixture thus promises an intriguing tactical battle, with the Toffees keen to exploit Bournemouth’s depleted lineup and extend their unbeaten streak.
Everton’s recent performances have been underpinned by defensive solidity and timely contributions from across the squad. Iliman Ndiaye weathered criticism for his showing against Fulham, but the team’s collective effort—bolstered by a bit of luck as Fulham’s only goal came via a fortuitous own goal—ensured the three points returned to Merseyside. Samuel Chukwueze and Emile Smith-Rowe both struck the woodwork, highlighting the narrow margins that often define Premier League encounters.
As the transfer window looms, all eyes will be on Everton’s negotiations with Manchester City regarding Grealish’s future. The potential for a cut-price deal, coupled with Grealish’s possible resurgence after a full recovery and pre-season, offers plenty of intrigue for fans and analysts alike. For now, though, Everton’s focus remains firmly on the pitch, where their blend of youth and experience is yielding results at just the right time.
With Bournemouth’s injury woes mounting and Everton’s squad nearly at full strength, Tuesday’s match at Goodison Park is set to be a pivotal contest. Whether Tyrique George can continue his impressive start and whether Moyes’ men can maintain their charge up the table are questions that will be answered under the floodlights. The Toffees’ resilience, both in overcoming setbacks and capitalizing on opportunities, will be put to the test once more as the Premier League season enters a decisive phase.
As the action unfolds and the transfer saga surrounding Jack Grealish lingers in the background, Everton supporters can take heart in their team’s recent form and growing sense of belief. The journey is far from over, but the signs point to an exciting run-in for the blue half of Merseyside.