Leeds United ready bid to sign James McAtee as Man City sale stance emerges

If Leeds United gets promoted to the Premier League this summer, GIVEMESPORT reports that they are interested in signing James McAtee from Manchester City. According to a report from Danny Rust on May 24, Southampton and the Whites are expected to compete for his signature following the Play-Off final.

McAtee isn’t part of Pep Guardiola’s future plans with the Champions, therefore he’ll probably go during the transfer window. His deal at the Etihad is currently for £10,000 per week, which might raise the amount that City asks. His contract expires in 2026. According to the report, the  Citizens might be able to afford to allow the 21-year-old move on a permanent transfer for under £20 million.

Should Leeds United sign James McAtee?

Despite playing for a weak Sheffield United team this season, the Englishman has impressed bystanders. In the Premier League, he made 20 starts from the starting lineup and 11 substitution appearances. In that period, he ranked fourth in the Blades’ lineup for goal involvement with three goals and three assists.

After finishing his initial loan stint with the team in the Championship last season, he has done well in his second stint at Bramall Lane. He is a graduate of the Man City academy and possesses several valuable skills that might make him a valuable addition for Daniel Farke in the off-season.

McAtee is adaptable enough to play as a number ten, on the wing, or even as a second striker when paired with a physically stronger forward like the Blades’ Ollie McBurnie. Though he might not end up being any better than Georginio Rutter, spending £20 million feels excessive given that other areas also require reinforcement.