‘Time’s up’: Alan Shearer urges star linked with Newcastle United move to leave his club this summer

Alan Shearer, a true icon of Newcastle United, has delivered a firm verdict on the future of Jack Grealish, urging the Manchester City winger to seek a new chapter in his career.

As the transfer window approaches, speculation surrounding Grealish’s potential departure from the Etihad has intensified, and Shearer’s comments only serve to amplify the discussion.

Newcastle, currently preparing for what promises to be a transformative summer, find themselves at the center of transfer rumors involving the England international, but the match between player and club might not be as seamless as some expect.

Newcastle United have enjoyed an impressive campaign, and their current position near the top of the Premier League table has kept hopes alive for a return to the Champions League.

A win against Everton on the final day of the season would secure their place among Europe’s elite, which could significantly impact the caliber of players they attract in the summer.

The club’s sporting director, Paul Mitchell, has already outlined key areas for reinforcement, including the addition of a center-back, a right-sided winger, and a forward to strengthen Eddie Howe’s squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

With recruitment strategy firmly in motion, Grealish’s name has surfaced as a possible target. Despite his undeniable talent, Grealish has endured a frustrating spell at Manchester City since his £100 million move in 2021.

Under Pep Guardiola, he has struggled to secure a consistent role in the starting lineup, particularly this season, where he has made only 19 Premier League appearances and found the net just once.

His diminishing involvement reached a tipping point recently when Guardiola opted to bring on a debutant and Ilkay Gundogan ahead of Grealish during a crucial game, signaling a clear lack of trust in the former Aston Villa man.

Shearer, speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, didn’t hold back in his assessment. He declared that Grealish’s time at Manchester City has run its course and insisted the player needs to move on if he’s to rejuvenate his career.

He emphasized that Guardiola has clearly moved past him, and staying any longer would only prolong a stagnating situation. Shearer’s opinion was echoed by Micah Richards, a former teammate of Grealish, who added that the winger has played too cautiously at City and failed to express the flair that made him such a thrilling prospect at Villa Park. Richards lamented that the footballing world has yet to see the real Jack Grealish since his high-profile move.

While Newcastle’s name continues to be linked with Grealish, the reality is that a move to St. James’ Park may not be the ideal fit. Newcastle’s left flank already boasts depth and quality, with Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes both excelling in that position.

Grealish, who operates best from the left side of the attack, would likely face an uphill battle for game time, and shoehorning him into an unfamiliar role could limit his effectiveness even further.

Moreover, financial considerations pose a significant obstacle. Grealish currently earns an estimated £300,000 per week, a figure that far exceeds the wage structure at Newcastle.

Even Bruno Guimarães, the club’s top earner, makes considerably less, and introducing a player with such a hefty salary could disrupt the harmony and balance that Howe has worked hard to establish within the dressing room.

Grealish himself is reportedly open to a move abroad, which might present a more suitable opportunity for him to rediscover his form and confidence away from the intense scrutiny of the Premier League.

A change of environment, new tactical setup, and less pressure could provide the platform he needs to reestablish himself as a key figure in elite football.

For Newcastle, the focus remains on strategic, sustainable growth. Eddie Howe has built a side defined by discipline, tactical intelligence, and a cohesive unit spirit.

While the prospect of signing a high-profile name like Grealish might excite some supporters, it’s clear that the club must prioritize functionality over flash. Grealish, despite his pedigree, may not align with the vision Newcastle have set forth, especially when considering positional overlap and the financial demands involved.

Ultimately, Grealish must weigh his options carefully. He still has the ability to influence games at the highest level, but time is no longer on his side to remain idle at a club where he’s no longer a focal point.

A departure from Manchester City is inevitable, and Shearer’s advice seems rooted in logic and genuine concern for a career that once promised so much. Whether Grealish finds his next chapter in England or abroad, one thing remains clear: he needs a fresh start, and the summer transfer window could be the turning point he so desperately needs.