James McAtee to Celtic: O'Rourke drops major update on January move
Celtic will find it tough to compete with Premier League clubs for Man City star James McAtee, sources have told Football Insider.
The Hoops are keen on the 22-year-old, who has struggled to break through at City despite their poor form in the 2024-25 campaign.
However, the Scottish Premiership giants are likely to face competition from Premier League trio West Ham, Fulham and Crystal Palace if McAtee becomes available.
The English sides would likely price Celtic out of a move as they are able to pay far more in wages and transfer fee.
A potential loan battle would give Brendan Rodgers' side the best chance to land McAtee, with the chance to play Champions League football a potentially big factor.
The Salford-born ace has been a feature in City's first-team this season but has struggled to get into Pep Guardiola's side.
West Ham, Fulham and Crystal Palace will lead Celtic in McAtee race
McAtee has made nine appearances across all competitions so far this term, scoring one goal.
He has scored six goals in 16 caps for England's Under-21 side and captained the Young Lions in games against Spain and the Netherlands in November.
The attacking midfielder's contract at the Etihad Stadium is set to run until June 2026.
Football Insider revealed on Monday (30 December) that Celtic are working on a deal to sign Arsenal full-back Kieran Tierney on a pre-contract deal in January.
In other news, Celtic have drawn up big January signings plan - expert.
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