Mauricio Pochettino's side made several approaches for the England U21 international as Villa were beset by financial problems, only to miss their window as Nassef Sawiris bought the club and refused to cash in on their prized asset.
Whilst Grealish was understood to have been disappointed at missing out on the chance to play Champions League football, he may soon be cheered up again after Bruce told the press that talks were ongoing over a new contract.
"Jack has been fantastic. We hope to reward him, we're in talks with him now," Bruce revealed ahead of Saturday's game against Ipswich. "I hope that it can progress, it will progress."
"I think it's important people hear that. We keep hearing that footballers don't want to play, Jack's knocking on my office at ten past nine demanding that he plays.
"Typical Jack. All the stories you hear about him, one thing I can tell you is that he wants to play."