Nottingham Forest are reportedly leading Leeds United in the race to sign former Sheffield United playmaker James McAtee from Manchester City.
The 22-year-old has spent his entire career on the books at the Etihad Stadium, although was sent to South Yorkshire for two seasons between 2022 and 2024.
James McAtee spent two seasons on loan at Sheffield United from Manchester City.James McAtee spent two seasons on loan at Sheffield United from Manchester City.
James McAtee spent two seasons on loan at Sheffield United from Manchester City. | Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
He said: “We have a high opinion of him. I would like to see. I would love to have him next season with us - he can play in the small spaces in the pockets.
“I think he grew up in terms of physicality and has played for a team fighting relegation and when you do this you get something special.”
However, the attacking midfielder has been afforded just three Premier League starts since the end of his loan stay at Sheffield United.
Leeds have been linked with McAtee on a number of occasions, although a return to Yorkshire has failed to materialise.
According to TEAMtalk, Premier League outfit Forest are ahead of Leeds in the battle for McAtee’s signature.
James McAtee has found first-team opportunities limited at Manchester City.James McAtee has found first-team opportunities limited at Manchester City.
James McAtee has found first-team opportunities limited at Manchester City. | OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images
Leeds look set for a busy summer of recruitment following their title-winning Championship campaign.
The gap between the Premier League and Championship is only increasing with each passing year, therefore survival would be a significant achievement for the Whites.
McAtee would arguably be a coup for Leeds, who have polarised supporters with their faith in Brenden Aaronson in the ‘number 10’ role.
The USA international was ever-present under Daniel Farke last season, but struggled during his last season in England’s top flight.