James McAtee seems like an important part of Leeds United’s transfer plans this window, but it’s not looking good.
The Man City midfielder looks very likely to leave Manchester this summer after McAtee was left out the Club World Cup.
This comes after Pep Guardiola said he wanted a smaller squad, and by letting go of McAtee, it makes both Leeds and City happy.
However, a £35m price tag stands in the way of the 49ers, who might not want to spend so heavily on one position.
To make matters worse, how McAtee feels about the move has just come out, and it spells serious trouble.
Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images
Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images
Fresh James McAtee stance amid Leeds United interest
The 22-year-old clearly feels ready to embark on a new journey away from Guardiola’s development.
City seem to have taken McAtee as far as they could, with the midfielder not getting the game time he needs right now.
Alan Shearer has urged McAtee to leave, and a move to Elland Road would certainly guarantee game time with Daniel Farke in need of a new number ten, and there is no denying the midfielder’s quality as well.
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But, despite Leeds’ desire to sign the out-of-favour star, McAtee has a different feeling towards his future.
Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg has revealed the latest from the City midfielder’s camp, and Farke might want to look away.
A new German side in VfB Stuttgart have added McAtee to their shortlist, this is along with Bundesliga outfits Eintracht Frankfurt, who have enquired, and Bayer Leverkusen, who are interested.
Leeds would probably think they can stick in this battle until Plettenberg revealed that McAtee is ‘very interested’ in the opportunity to play in the Bundesliga.
🚨🆕 VfB Stuttgart have added James #McAtee to their shortlist. They are monitoring his situation closely and have already gathered all the relevant information. #VfB are looking at several profiles for his position.
Eintracht Frankfurt have also made an enquiry, while Bayer 04… pic.twitter.com/OdZ9Woqoh1
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) June 5, 2025
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READ MORE: Leeds United tipped to match Newcastle United’s spending as 49ers target ‘£250m’ mark
Silver lining for Leeds and the 49ers in McAtee’s preference
Although it’s looking like the Whites are losing a quality player in the 22-year-old, £35m is not justifiable.
There is every chance McAtee could light up Yorkshire through his ability, but the 49ers and Farke have to look into alternatives.
The perfect option who has the blend of both quality and Premier League experience is Emi Buendia, as not only are Leeds getting a more experienced player, but Buendia is available for loan this summer.
Buendia’s best season in the Premier League (21/22)
Games played 35
Goal involvements 10 (4G+6A)
Chances created 48
Successful Dribbles per 90 1.89
Duels won 141
A loan deal means a cheaper alternative for the Whites, as the ownership will need to spend sensibly to avoid PSR concerns that might remain.
Although it’s a shame Leeds will miss out on McAtee, a deal further down the line might not be out of the picture.