James McAtee’s future at Manchester City has become quite the talking point this summer. Leeds United are long-time admirers of the midfielder and could snap him up this summer.
Last January, James McAtee was a target at Elland Road. An ambitious one, Leeds United tried to sign McAtee on loan from Man City, but the Salford-born star ended up staying at the Etihad.
And since the end of the season, Leeds’ links to McAtee have been reignited. Indeed, Daniel Farke faces some stiff competition for McAtee’s signature with Spurs among others thought to be interested in a summer swoop.
Out of contract in 2026, it looks like the 22-year-old will be on the move this summer. And it’s clear that McAtee is itching to play more regular football after playing just 15 times in the Premier League last time round.
England U21s' James McAtee before a game against the Netherlands.
Photo by Tullio Puglia – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
James McAtee has no regrets choosing to play for England this summer
This summer, McAtee had the chance to either play in the Club World Cup with Man City, or in the U21 Euros with England. He chose the latter and he’s since shone with the Young Lions, scoring one and assisting one in five games, helping England reach the final where they play Germany on Sunday.
Speaking to Daily Mail, McAtee has revealed he has absolutely no regrets over his decision to represent England. He said: “I don’t regret my decision at all. I’m happy I’m here and my focus is here and not on the Club World Cup.”
The same report from Daily Mail goes on to write that ‘part of McAtee’s thinking was that England’s U21s would give him a greater portion of game time in a summer where his club future is under scrutiny’.
Gustavo Hamer points during Sheffield United vs Bristol City.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
The two no.10s who Leeds United are pushing to sign right now
Man City are thought to want £25million for McAtee, which could make him an affordable and achievable target for Leeds United who have a £150million transfer budget following promotion.
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But with so many teams interested, a bidding war could yet see Leeds priced out of a move. And besides, it’s understood that Leeds United have set their sights on two attacking midfielders this summer: Gustavo Hamer and Emi Buendia.
Leeds United are tipped to sign one of Buendia or Hamer this summer. Meanwhile, Brenden Aaronson could leave Leeds with offers from abroad, as the USMNT man faces losing his spot in the starting XI going into the new campaign.
Expect McAtee’s future to be discussed a lot more once the Euros are over and once he’s had his summer break. Leeds United may well keep their ear to the ground but if Hamer or Buendia is available before then, which seems likely, then McAtee might not be needed by Farke.