Manchester United must complete a shock move for Manchester City youngster James McAtee in the summer transfer window after being linked earlier in the summer - especially after it was revealed that he could leave for a fee in the region of £25million, a seriously cut-price figure for someone of his talents at such a young age.
Seven goals in all competitions for City last season showed he had a place under Pep Guardiola in a poor season for the club, but the arrivals of Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders this summer have punted him further down the pecking order and United should rescue him from that.
James McAtee has Been Linked With Man Utd Switch
The City midfielder looks to be on his way out of the club this summer
James McAtee in action for Manchester City
A report by the Mirror last month stated that United are eyeing a shock move to sign McAtee from their local rivals, with the 22-year-old being left out of City's squad for the Club World Cup - though he did compete as captain in England under-21's European Championship trophy win.
That alone was a hint that he is considering an exit this summer, and after winning Man of the Match in the 3-2 final win over Germany's youngsters, he's clearly got the talent to make an impact at Premier League level. Making just nine starts in all competitions for the Citizens, McAtee is thought to be considering a future away from the Etihad Stadium - and he could move across the city to join Ruben Amorim's men.
United are thought to be one of the suitors circling for McAtee's signature, with City being forced into making a decision on their youth academy product, especially given he has just 12 months left on his deal - meaning a deal must be made this summer to avoid losing him for a nominal compensation fee as they have with former talents such as CJ Egan-Riley and more.
James McAtee's Premier League statistics - Man City squad ranking, 24/25
Stats
Appearances
Goals
Key Passes Per Game
Shots Per Game
Crosses Per Game
Match rating
The last player to move between the two clubs was then-veteran Owen Hargreaves in 2012, though McAtee would mean more given his potential and with United set to undergo a serious rebuild this summer, the youngster could play a vital part in their squad.
A further report by Fabrizio Romano on Wednesday morning stated that McAtee can leave City for a maximum fee of £25million this summer, with clubs from across Europe showing an interest in the midfielder, and for such a small fee, that could be a deal worth doing for United.
United Must Complete a Move for McAtee
The Red Devils need Premier League standard-players, and he has that in abundance
James McAtee in action for Manchester City
McAtee certainly has Premier League quality, and at serious value for money, there is no reason why United shouldn't make a move for his services.
The 'unbelievable' star wouldn't have to relocate, and having shone in the Championship at the age of just 19, he somewhat proved his worth with Sheffield United in the 2023/24 season with three goals in the top-flight, although their relegation meant he didn't stay at the Blades.
Matheus Cunha is expected to waltz into one of Amorim's 'number 10' slots, whilst top target and Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo would also do the same - though McAtee would offer superb competition for the pair, receiving more game time than he would at City.
A strong season at Old Trafford could even see him clinch a 2026 World Cup spot if all goes to plan, whilst also nailing down a central midfield position over Bruno Fernandes if the Red Devils skipper needs a break from the action at any point.
Statistics courtesy of WhoScored. Correct as of 10-07-25.
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