Aston Villa legend Darius Vassell has handed Manchester United a boost in their transfer hunt for Jack Grealish, admitting he has to leave the club at some point.
The Villa captain has been in superb form for Dean Smith's side this season following their promotion to the Premier League, though they are battling to avoid relegation.
Grealish 's performance have attracted attention and, with the European Championship being pushed back to 2021, his push to make the England squad has also been boosted.
While Vassell would like to see him remain at the club, he admits it is difficult to see him turning down a move to a club like United if the opportunity arose.
“I always get asked about Jack Grealish’s situation. I want him to stay through supporting Villa - he’s one of our own," he told Stadium Astro.
“But he’s so good now, where could he end up if he went to a better team with better players? Is it right to hold him back? If you look at history, you’ve got Gareth Barry and James Milner who left for City. Top quality players went on to bigger and better things.
“So I think it’s a matter of time. He’s so good, how can other teams not be tempted to come in and steal him?
“I don’t like saying it but he’s got to go at some point. Unless Villa get new owners and are buying the best players, go and get the most for your career.
“I don’t think Villa fans would blame him – he’s played his heart out and done brilliantly. At the end of the day, I wouldn’t be surprised.”
