James McAtee celebrates with Lewis Hall
Newcastle United's hunt for reinforcements this summer could see them look for versatile players who can fit into a number of positions.
The Magpies' squad will be fighting on several fronts next season. A tilt at the Premier League title hasn't been ruled out while Champions League football will add an extra strain on the resources.
Eddie Howe is hoping for four quality signings to bolster his options: a goalkeeper, centre-back, right-sided forward and a central striker. Should they sell either Sean Longstaff or Joe Willock this summer then they will also need another midfielder.
With limited funds available - despite a relaxation in United's PSR restrictions - Newcastle will still need to be creative in the transfer market. Finding players who offer versatility will help the dynamics.
Bryan Mbeumo is a forward who can play in a couple of positions, mainly as a right-winger but also through the middle. This makes him an attractive proposition as Howe and Paul Mitchell look to tie up a couple of deals before the month is out.
Another potential option that has emerged is Man City youngster James McAtee. The 22-year-old has been told he can leave the Etihad this summer, having fallen down the pecking order under Pep Guardiola.
Guardiola remains a fan of the attacker, but can't guarantee him gametime as he rebuilds his squad and with the City boss adamant he doesn't want a bloated squad for the upcoming season, a number of fringe players are set to be shipped out.
McAtee won't be heading to the Club World Cup later this month, having been left out of City's squad in what was seen as the final nail in the coffin of his career at the club.
The move comes after the player was left out of the FA Cup Final squad despite playing in four previous rounds and scoring a hat-trick against Salford City.
McAtee offers versatility to whoever signs him. He can play either on the right side of a front three, cutting in on his left foot, or as an attacking midfielder.
Guardiola said: “I understand players want more minutes. He can play different positions but I don’t know how the squad will be and we will see.”
McAtee only has 12 months left on his contract and could be available for around £20m. Newcastle have watched the player closely and are understood to like aspects of his game. They were linked with a move in January after Miguel Almiron's departure but decided against spending in the winter window.
It could be a deal they look to explore, although McAtee is understood to be keen on a move to the Bundesliga, having seen how fellow Englishmen Jude Bellingham, Jadon Sancho and Jamie Gittens have fared in Germany.
Bayer Leverkusen have been credited with an interest in the player, eho ended the season with seven goals including a strike against Newcastle at the Etihad.
Instead of flying to the Club World Cup, McAtee has been added to England’s pre-tournament training squad ahead of the U21s Euros in Slovakia.