Manchester City midfielder James McAtee has reacted to speculation that he could leave the Premier League champions in January.
Both West Ham and Fulham have been linked with bids for the 22-year-old in recent days but, when Voetbal Primeur had the chance to interview him, they also decided to mention Ajax and Feyenoord. When asked about those two teams, McAtee replied.
“I don’t know. I’ve seen them play… They are very big clubs and play good football… I’m not too sure. I don’t know [with a smile].”
McAtee has had limited game time this season, having returned from a two-year spell at Sheffield United, so there are suggestions that he could be open to a move away from the Etihad in order to play more regularly.
What sort of money would City demand for the player?
It has been reported that the Cityzens are hoping to get at least £20m from prospective clubs but, after rejecting offers of around £30m during the summer transfer window, it would be a surprise if McAtee departed for such a low fee.
There should be plenty of competition for the England Under 21 international too. Before the start of the season, the likes of Chelsea, Stuttgart, Feyenoord, Leicester, Nottingham Forest, Southampton, Lille, Lens and Celtic were all mentioned as potential suitors.
McAtee is an important member of the first-team squad
Although the midfielder has only made one cameo appearance in the Premier League this season, he has started in the Carabao Cup and the Community Shield. He has also been used as a substitute in the Champions League, having scored against Slovan Bratislava during a 4-0 win back in October.
It is understandable why McAtee would be keen on getting more minutes but, due to City’s injury situation, a sale is unlikely to be sanctioned before the end of the season.
Find out who is in Manchester City’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here
