Manchester City midfielder James McAtee is expected to join Nottingham Forest for a fee “in excess of £20m”, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Writing on his X account, Romano said that the 22-year-old’s transfer is now at a very advanced stage:
“Nottingham Forest are closing in on James McAtee deal with Manchester City! Agreement at the final stages for fee in excess of £20m, NFFC confident to get it done… here we go, expected soon.”
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Following reports earlier this summer that the Cityzens had rejected a £25m bid from Forest for McAtee, Romano’s reporting on the price tag does seem surprising.
£40m was McAtee’s original valuation
It had been stated by more than one source that Pep Guardiola’s side wanted a similar fee to the one they received from Chelsea for Cole Palmer a couple of years ago.
That would suggest the club would only consider McAtee’s departure if they received an offer in excess of £40m. Romano’s remarks indicate he will be let go for half that figure.
Clearly, this news won’t go down well with supporters, who would have been hoping for a much higher sum for one of their most talented young players.
Man City are trying to trim the squad
Guardiola has made it clear in no uncertain terms that he wants to reduce the size of the first team before the transfer window closes on September 1st.
Director of Football Hugo Viana appears to be complying with that request, but it seems as though McAtee could be leaving the Etihad Stadium for a fee substantially below his market value
Of course, subsequent reports may give us further clarity on what the exact price is, but it does look like the midfielder’s time with City is coming to an end.
Read more about the Man City First Team Squad for 2025/26 here