Man City could accept bid for James McAtee ahead of January – sources
Man City could be tempted to accept offers for James McAtee in the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the midfielder was expecting to receive more first-team football this season and will make a decision about where he sees his future.
Sources say a permanent move may be difficult at this stage, but a significant offer could see the club cash in, in an attempt to help balance the books and add to their transfer kitty.
It is also said McAtee is “desperate” to play regular minutes at the top level after two successful loan spells with Sheffield United, and another loan could be on the cards.
This comes after former Leeds United goalkeeper Paul Robinson told Football Insider that the Elland Road club have made an “audacious” offer for the 22-year-old.
West Ham are also among the clubs keeping an eye on his situation, although sources say their interest is still in the early stages, with no offer lined up as things stand.
Man City to make James McAtee exit decision in January
Football Insider revealed earlier this month that City could allow McAtee to leave the club next summer amid interest from the likes of West Ham.
However, as we approach the winter transfer window, there is a growing feeling at the Etihad that he could leave his boyhood club as soon as January.
McAtee has featured six times for City so far this season, with just one of those coming in the Premier League in a one-minute cameo display against Ipswich.
This is despite an ongoing injury crisis at the Etihad which has left Guardiola looking to find alternative options in the middle of the park.
Interest from West Ham and Fulham has lingered since the summer, and both sides are said to be keen to offer him a way out of City in January.
As a result, both loan and permanent exits are a possibility ahead of the winter transfer window, with McAtee’s desire to play the catalyst behind the growing interest.
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