Leeds United will reportedly be interested in Nottingham Forest’s James McAtee this summer.
The 23-year-old has been linked with the Whites on a number of occasions over the years, but a move to Elland Road has not materialised.
He enjoyed two seasons on loan at Sheffield United between 2022 and 2024 before being targeted by Leeds upon his return to parent club Manchester City.
The attacking midfielder was retained by Pep Guardiola, only to be used sparingly. A £30m move to Nottingham Forest was sanctioned last summer but has not provided him with regular football.
Having made just one Premier League start this season, it appears the former England youth international could be at the centre of transfer speculation this summer.
James McAtee has been a bit-part player for Nottingham Forest this season.placeholder image
James McAtee has been a bit-part player for Nottingham Forest this season. | Zed Jameson/PA Wire
James McAtee claim
Former Manchester United scout Mick Brown believes Leeds will be interested but has questioned whether he is a player the Whites should pursue.
He told Football Insider: “Leeds have been long-term admirers of McAtee. They missed out last season when he went to Nottingham Forest, but obviously things haven’t worked out there so he could be available this summer.
“Whether he will be as keen on that move, I’m not sure, because he hasn’t ever managed to impress in the Premier League when he’s been away from Man City.
“The real challenge has been whether he can go to Nottingham Forest and make them a better side, and he hasn’t been able to do that. So then what makes Leeds think he would do it for them?
Manchester City's James McAtee spent two years on loan at Sheffield United.placeholder image
Manchester City's James McAtee spent two years on loan at Sheffield United. | Matt McNulty/Getty Images
“From his point of view, I expect a move to a European club might suit his game better where he has a bit more time to show off his technial abilities.
“Leeds will be interested because they’ve been after him for a while, but I’m not sure it would be the right move for them or for him.”
The business Leeds do during the next transfer window will be dictated by their fate in the Premier League this season.
Survival will allow for more investment as well as the retention of key players, but relegation will most likely lead to a firesale.