This summer transfer window, the future of Manchester City’s young talent James McAtee has become a focus of media attention. Reports suggest that City have set a £35 million price tag on McAtee, with four major European clubs – Borussia Dortmund, Eintracht Frankfurt, Nottingham Forest, and West Ham United – all eyeing the midfielder. The young star has turned into a "hot commodity" in the transfer market.
It’s understood that McAtee’s contract with Manchester City has entered its final year. Normally, players in such a contract stage tend to have a relatively lower transfer fee, which was the initial expectation of many suitors. They had hoped to sign McAtee for £20 million to £25 million. However, Manchester City believe the 21-year-old’s talent is exceptional, and the £35 million price tag is by no means excessive.
Yet, this high price hasn’t deterred the pursuers. Nottingham Forest are the most eager to land McAtee. It’s reported that they may launch a fierce official pursuit in the next few days. But to reach a final agreement, both sides still need to conduct a series of crucial negotiations, as the price gap remains the most realistic issue.
Nottingham Forest’s strong desire for McAtee stems from their recent transfer activity – they sold Anthony Elanga for £55 million, and with Gibbs-White’s future uncertain, the team is in urgent need of reinforcing their attacking options, making McAtee their top target.
West Ham United are also actively vying for McAtee, with manager Graham Potter determined to strengthen the team’s attack. Earlier, the club sold Mohammed Kudus to Tottenham for £55 million, weakening their offensive strength, so they’re desperate to find a suitable replacement, and McAtee fits their needs perfectly.
Beyond these two Premier League sides, German clubs Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt have joined the scramble. Recently, it’s reported that McAtee has traveled to Germany and held talks with both teams, indicating that the player himself isn’t opposed to the Bundesliga – giving Dortmund and Frankfurt a slight edge in the race.
Currently, this transfer saga surrounding McAtee continues to unfold. Which team will successfully sign him this summer? Let’s wait and see.
