James McAtee wanted by West Ham and Fulham in the winter transfer window as youngster sees himself in demand.
James McAtee is attracting interest from Fulham and West Ham before the January transfer window.
This season, the attacking midfielder has only made one appearance as a substitute in the Premier League, and some people think a transfer might help him.
A graduate of City’s youth, McAtee attracted attention while on loan at Sheffield United last season and is currently being pursued by West Ham and Fulham. Chelsea had also been keeping an eye on the 22-year-old last summer, who may fetch a fee of up to £20 million.
At the beginning of the season, the England Under-21 player hoped to make his debut in the City squad. Nevertheless, despite Pep Guardiola’s injury crisis and McAtee’s potential departure to pursue regular football, opportunities have been scarce. He has only made two starts in the Carabao Cup, and last month, he scored after substituting in for Slovan Bratislava in City’s Champions League victory.
Since McAtee current contract is set to expire in the summer of 2026. City has not ruled out offering him a new one because they still think highly of him. In recent years, the city has also not been opposed to selling its own talent. Particularly when it benefits its position with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.
This season, West Ham has both physical and creative difficulties in the midfield. Their star player, Lucas Paquetá, hasn’t been very good. West Ham, who have taken advantage of the international break to evaluate their management situation in case they decide to fire Julen Lopetegui, may not have a huge budget in January. Last summer, they spent almost £100 million.
Fulham looked at McAtee last summer and has had a great start to the season. Marco Silva’s team is currently one point out of third place. Silva has a pleasing style of play and has frequently sought out innovative players. Since joining from Arsenal last summer, Emile Smith Rowe has had a comeback.