Jack Grealish has become Manchester City’s biggest signing after arriving for a British record £100 million.
Creative midfielder Grealish, 25, arrives on a six-year deal having scored 32 goals and made 43 assists in 213 appearances for Aston Villa.
And he will be expected to provide the kind of spark which will add a little unpredictability and jeopardy to the City attack against the kinds of packed defences they can face in the Premier League.
He will take the iconic number 10 shirt which was recently vacated by club legend Sergio Aguero – news which emerged on the same night that Barcelona announced that Lionel Messi – another City target – would not be continuing at the Catalan club.
And in a week that another City transfer target – Harry Kane – has hardened his resolve to leave Spurs the transfer saga will only continue to grow around their other main target this summer.
Having featured for England in the delayed Euro 2020 tournament this summer the clamour for Grealish only grew until City’s big reveal just days before the Community Shield season curtain raiser against Leicester City.
Grealish said: “I am incredibly happy to have joined Manchester City. City are the best team in the country with a manager considered to be the best in the world – it’s a dream come true to be part of this club.
“Over the past 10 seasons, they have won major trophies consistently.
“Pep coming here has taken them to the next level and the football this team plays is the most exciting in Europe.
“To play for Pep and learn from him is going to be special and it’s something any top footballer would want.
“The facilities are amazing, and I honestly can’t wait to get started, meet everyone and get playing.”
Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “We are absolutely delighted to be able to welcome Jack Grealish to Manchester City. He is an incredible talent.
“Jack’s development over the past few seasons both for club and country has been plain for everybody to see.
His natural talent together with his commitment to improve as a player, has seen him become one of the most exciting attacking players in world football today.
“I am certain that the fans are going to love seeing him in our team. Pep loves the way he plays, and we all feel he is an ideal fit for Manchester City.
“Our style and his style are a perfect match. I’m excited to watch him over the coming years.”