Gibbs-White reacts to James McAtee’s Man City message amid ‘swap deal’ claim
James McAtee had a message for the Man City supporters amid growing speculation about his future at the club.
The midfielder has endured a difficult campaign when it comes to game time, and talk of a summer move has started to build.
McAtee has featured for just 936 minutes across all competitions this season, making only three starts in the Premier League under Pep Guardiola.
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson told Football Insider that a potential swap deal involving McAtee and Morgan Gibbs-White could be on the cards — with both Manchester City and Nottingham Forest said to be admirers of the respective players.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, McAtee took a moment to acknowledge the support he’s received, sharing a message with fans following the end of the domestic campaign.
James McAtee shares message with Man City fans amid Forest transfer links
The 22-year-old shared a reflective message on Instagram as the season drew to a close, writing: “Season done. Time to recharge and shift focus to the summer ahead.”
His post drew reactions from several players, including Rico Lewis who left a thumbs up emoji, while former academy graduate Morgan Rogers and Nottingham Forest’s Gibbs-White — linked with a move to City — both liked the post.
Football Insider reported on 10 May that Gibbs-White is keen to join Man City and work under Pep Guardiola. With Forest also expressing interest in McAtee, a rare swap deal could emerge as a realistic option for both clubs.
Despite limited minutes this season, McAtee’s output has been encouraging, scoring seven goals in 27 appearances across all competitions.
However, Forest aren’t the only side interested in the England Under-21 international, with West Ham and Crystal Palace also tracking him, potentially complicating any deal.
Man City face Arsenal competition in Morgan Gibbs-White race
Despite Man City’s long-standing interest in Gibbs-White, they’re also not alone in the race for his signature this summer.
Football Insider revealed that Arsenal have joined the race to sign Gibbs-White, with Mikel Arteta keen to improve their midfield options.
With Florian Wirtz seemingly on the verge of a move to Liverpool, missing out on Gibbs-White would come as another major setback for City’s recruitment plans.
A potential swap deal involving McAtee could fast-track negotiations and ward off rival interest — but which deal materialises first remains to be seen.