Leeds United on high alert with James McAtee frustrated at Manchester City
James McAtee growing frustrated with his lack of minutes at Manchester City could open the door for Leeds United to pursue a January transfer.
The Telegraph reported on 27 December that McAtee is “desperate” for more game time and could push for a transfer in January with 18 months remaining on his current deal at the Etihad Stadium.
While City would prefer to keep McAtee despite giving him just eight appearances this season, the 22-year-old is a target for the Whites and no less than eight clubs across the Premier League and Europe.
United will have to fight off the likes of Nottingham Forest, West Ham, Brentford, Bayer Leverkusen, Dortmund and RB Leipzig to sign McAtee in January, raising the prospect of a massive coup.
James McAtee transfer could be the difference for Leeds United
Although City are only likely to let their England Under-21s playmaker leave on a short-term loan deal, the Peacocks may only need McAtee between January and May to get the job done.
Currently locked level on points with Sheffield United – where McAtee has spent two seasons on loan in the top two tiers – at the Championship summit, January additions could all but guarantee promotion.
Daniel Farke’s side leading the way in the goal difference stakes is their only advantage over the Blades at the moment, but McAtee is the type of playmaker who can help turn draws into victories.
Brenden Aaronson has established himself as Farke’s first-choice number 10 so far this term, but the Whites still lack the creative brilliance which Georginio Rutter – now of Brighton – brought in abundance.
Signing McAtee to provide competition and likely supplant Aaronson in this role could decide promotion in Leeds’ favour, and the opportunity of loaning him for six months is too good an opportunity to pass up.
In other Leeds news, the Whites have been given a boost in their pursuit of a player in another key position next month.
For more Leeds news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.