Former Manchester City defender Steve Howey has urged Pep Guardiola to spend £100million of his transfer budget on Jack Grealish.

The attacking midfielder has been grabbing the attention of a host of clubs thanks to his impressive performances for Aston Villa, with him scoring seven goals and registering 12 assists in 27 appearances last season.

Grealish has taken his club form onto the international stage as he has made a big impact during England's run to the Euro 2020 final.

Reports suggest City are preparing a bid of £100million which will be tabled after the Three Lions' clash with Italy on Sunday.

Villa are in a strong negotiating position as the 25-year-old still has four years remaining on his £120,000-per-week contract.

But Howey, who enjoyed a three-year spell on the current Premier League champions' books, believes the addition of Grealish would take boss Guardiola's attacking options to a new level.

Speaking exclusively to The Transfer Tavern, Howey said: "Fees are ridiculous now, but if you look in the current market then you would say he is worth £100million.

"He's just signed a five-year contract with Villa and we all know the impact he's had for England. Jack Grealish is a top player and you want top players at your club."