Premier League club Manchester City confirmed the signing of English midfielder Jack Grealish on Thursday on a six-year deal from Aston Villa in a British record transfer deal. 

The playmaker will bolster an already stacked attacking midfielder lineup for the Sky Blues — that includes Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan, Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva and Raheem Sterling.

The star midfielder will wear the no. 10 jersey at the Manchester club. 

City became the favourites to sign the talented Villa player in March, according to Sky Sports report, and they have remained steadfast in their pursuit, initiating negotiations over their bid last week and offering his £100m release clause last Friday.

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The Premier League champions have made a statement with the acquisition, as Pep Guardiola tries to defend his championship and go one step further and finally conquer the UEFA Champions League.

After putting pen to paper, 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.”

The 25-year-old has been instrumental in Aston Villa’s rise in the Premier League. In spite of being injured for a major chunk of the season, Grealish snapped up 6 goals and 12 assists last season. 

His flamboyant persona and playing style has made him a fan favourite not only in Birmingham but across the country. However, the player has often been in the news for the wrong reasons — including violation of COVID-19 protocols, rash driving and violent conduct on the field.