Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is planning to play Jack Grealish in a deeper role if he completes his move from Aston Villa, according to reports. City have tabled an offer of £100million for Grealish which Villa are expected to accept. Reports say a deal could be completed as early as next week.
Man City transfer news: Pep Guardiola plans to play Jack Grealish in midfield at times (Image: GETTY)
Speaking on the Transfer Window podcast, Duncan Castles says the former Barcelona boss is planning to play Grealish in midfield at times.
He believes City's style of play will allow a player such as Grealish to come from a deeper role.
Asked about what position Guardiola is planning to play Grealish in, Castles said: "Yes I think he will play in one of the midfield positions, in one of the No 8 positions, and coming off the wing.
"We know how fluid City are and we know that a lot of what they do in attack is about carrying the ball into the penalty area from various positions on the field, making space for players to carry the ball into the area, and cutting it back for someone to score.
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Man City transfer news: Pep Guardiola will hope Jack Grealish can lead to Champions League success (Image: EXPRESS)
Castles says a more central role for Grealish is what he would prefer.
"I understand Grealish's preference is to play inside, so that's probably another attraction to him," he added.
"I think you will see him, assuming this deal goes through, playing in either position in the coming season."
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City remain interested in signing Grealish's England team-mate and Tottenham captain Harry Kane.
Castles says City do not want to spend more than £200m on the duo.
"It is an extraordinary bit of business, unparalleled," he said.
"The numbers you're talking about are £100m for each player and that, I've been guided, is what Manchester City are trying to limit the fees to, and making it clear they would go to £100m for each of the players.
"Obviously Aston Villa will want more if they are forced to sell."