Pep Guardiola's harsh decision dropping James McAtee from Manchester City's FA Cup final squad has sparked further transfer links with Leeds United.
No other City player has scored more goals in the FA Cup this season than McAtee. The 22-year-old Englishman bagged a hat-trick in his side's 8-0 thrashing of Salford City.
But despite playing a pivotal role in City's progression during the tournament, Guardiola cut the youngster from his team for the final - he wasn't even on the bench.
McAtee isn't likely to be impressed by the decision, especially when his midfield replacement was 19-year-old Claudio Echeverri who came on at the 76th minute mark to make his debut for the Premier League giants. The omission has only added fuel to the fire when it comes to McAtee possibly leaving City.
Leeds are reportedly one of a dozen clubs that have approached Guardiola's side regarding McAtee. Daniel Farke's side enquired about McAtee last season, but Guardiola was adamant about keeping the academy graduate.
Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City, gestures prior to the FA Cup Final match between Crystal Palace and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium
Pep Guardiola named a surprising XI for the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace
The Blues are said to be valuing McAtee at £25million, however, unless City are able to get their academy product to sign a contract extension, the 22-year-old will be allowed to leave next year for free with his contract expiring in the summer of 2026.
The Whites aren't alone in their interest. The likes of Nottingham Forest, Manchester United, Newcastle United and Milan are just a few names on the list of clubs monitoring the performances of McAtee.
One benefit that would likely arise for the City player if he were to move to Elland Road is the opportunity of more playtime compared to some bigger clubs.
Guardiola has one more season to prove to McAtee that he values him and sees a future for the Englishman at the Etihad. What happens this summer could define whether McAtee breaks through at City — or begins a new chapter elsewhere.