Man Utd’s decision to pass up on Aston Villa star Jack Grealish explained

Manchester United opted against stepping up their interest in Jack Grealish over fears where he would fit into Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side.

The Aston Villa captain signed a new five-year deal at Villa Park on Tuesday to end speculation over his future this summer.

The midfielder had been heavily linked to Manchester United last season but has now committed himself to the club until 2025.

And according to Manchester Evening News, United never approached Villa with a formal offer for the England midfielder.

It is understood that United’s focus this summer has been on landing Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund.

The Red Devils have also already boosted their midfield ranks with the signing of Donny van de Beek from Ajax, although the Dutchman isn’t seen as a Grealish alternative.

There was uncertainty over where Grealish would fit in at United, with the midfielder playing in an advanced role and to the left of a front three; a position Marcus Rashford has nailed down.

And while Van de Beek can also play in an advanced role, he is versatile and can play in a deep-lying position if needed.

Therefore, United decided not to pursue their interest and Grealish has now extended his stay with his boyhood club on a deal believed to be worth £140,000 a week.

He helped Villa survive in the Premier League last season as they beat the drop by a point on the final day.

He told the club’s official site: “I am delighted to make this commitment to Villa. It is my club, my home and I am very happy here.

“The owners have made it very clear to me how ambitious they are and how they want to build Aston Villa. There are exciting times ahead and I am very glad to be part of it.”

Grealish, 25, scored 10 goals in 41 games last term and earned his England debut in this month’s 0-0 Nations League draw in Denmark.