Grealish's telling response to Napoli transfer question as he cracks KDB joke

As Jack Grealish continues to be linked with a move away from Manchester City, the ex-Aston Villa captain answered a direct question about a potential move to Napoli

Jack Grealish refused to rule out a move to Napoli when asked by fans during his trip to Italy. The Manchester City winger has been linked with a move away from the Etihad Stadium for weeks and recently agreed to train on his own in pre-season.

The last year has proved to be a difficult one for England's first-ever £100million player. He only started seven Premier League matches and was left out of City's squad for their final game of last season against Fulham, as well as their travelling party for the Club World Cup.

The ex-Aston Villa captain has been linked with moves to West Ham United and Newcastle United this summer. However, Napoli, who have already signed Kevin De Bruyne, have also emerged as a potential destination.

Grealish only furthered those rumours when he spoke to supporters while on the Amalfi Coast, where he flew into earlier this week to continue his solo training. He has been spotted on football pitches in Ravello, a picturesque town in the Campania region of Italy.

Speaking to Radio Marte, Emanuele Falcone, municipal councillor of Scala, claimed Grealish hinted he could soon be moving to Napoli when quizzed by onlookers. Falcone said: "Grealish has booked our sports facility for the whole week, from Monday to Thursday.

"On Friday, he might pop over to Naples. He trained very seriously, like a true professional. Lots of fans stopped him for a photo and asked him if he really could come to Napoli?

"Him? Never a denial, just laughter and winks. In fact, he let slip a joke, 'You already have De Bruyne in Napoli.'"

De Bruyne joined Antonio Conte's side this summer on a free transfer after City opted not to give him a new contract. He will be reunited with Grealish if the England international chooses to follow his former colleague to Naples.

In June, the Sun claimed the reigning Italian champions would be willing to spend £45m on Grealish. The Englishman may factor in the ascent of Scott McTominay, who has transformed from Manchester United outcast to Serie A MVP since joining last summer, into his decision-making.

With the 2026 World Cup in the back of his mind, Grealish will be desperate for first-team football after being left out of the England squad for Euro 2024. Last year, Guardiola heavily insinuated that it may be better for him to seek pastures new if he wants to appear regularly.

After City ended the season by beating Fulham 2-0, the City boss said: "Of course Jack has to play. He's an unbelievable player that has to play football every three days.

"It didn't happen this season and last season either. He needs to do it. With us or another place. It's a question for Jack, his agent and the club."