Jack Grealish's story is a clear indication of why Eberechi Eze should opt for Tottenham over Manchester City this summer.
The Crystal Palace superstar has been on Tottenham's radar for some time now, with manager Ange Postecoglou eager to strengthen his attacking options. After an impressive end to the season at Selhurst Park, it's hardly surprising that Tottenham is facing competition for Eze from City - while Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool have also showed an interest.
While Tottenham's London rivals and Liverpool seem to be focusing elsewhere, the reigning Premier League champion is contemplating a PS68 million ($87.8 million) bid for Eze. Palace has already said goodbye to Michael Olise, who chose to join Bayern Munich, but remains hopeful of retaining both Eze and Marc Guehi for this coming season.
Last summer saw Spurs secure the signature of James Maddison, providing Postecoglou with an abundance of talent capable of playing in his preferred position, which also happens to be Eze's. Dejan Kulusevski has previously been utilised in a central role alongside Lucas Bergvall, as well as homegrown talents Mickey Moore and Tyrese Hall.
However, within Postecoglou's system, players are given the liberty to roam the pitch, seeking out the ball and creating openings in opposition defences. If Eze makes the move, he'll undoubtedly be given the freedom to showcase his talent, a luxury he might not enjoy if he opts for City.
Grealish made a PS100 million ($129 million) switch to City in 2021 after an impressive season at Aston Villa, but it's fair to say that we haven't seen the best of him over the past three seasons. Despite adding to his trophy haul, the 28-year-old has had to adapt his game to fit into Pep Guardiola's system, and Eze could face a similar situation if he chooses to ply his trade at the Etihad Stadium.
Eze, whose release clause could rise to PS70 million ($90.3 million) with add-ons, will also have to consider the presence of Phil Foden and Kevin De Bruyne, especially after Guardiola confirmed that the latter isn't going anywhere this summer. While Eze can operate from the left, his preferred position is central, where Foden and De Bruyne are likely to be ahead of him.
Jeremy Doku and Grealish are also vying for one spot on the left, whereas at Spurs, Eze would likely be a guaranteed starter in either position. This could be another reason for him to consider a move to north London if he decides to leave Palace.