Manchester City are reportedly ready to let England U21 captain James McAtee depart this summer, with the Blues willing to sell the 22-year-old midfielder if a suitable offer around £20–25 million arrives, sources say.
James McAtee Eyes Exit as City Open to Sale This Summer
After a challenging 2024–25 campaign, where McAtee featured in only three Premier League starts and failed to break into City’s Champions League plans, Pep Guardiola has signalled that he doesn’t figure in the club’s long-term setup.
With McAtee entering the final year of his contract (ending June 2026), City see an opportunity to comply with profit-and-sustainability rules by securing a healthy fee for a homegrown talent.
McAtee recently visited Eintracht Frankfurt’s training ground, meeting club officials as they cultivate growing interest.
German outlets suggest Frankfurt would pay roughly €30 million, but might need to wait until they finalize other departures before funding the move.
Borussia Dortmund is also showing strong interest, inviting him for a second club visit soon. Deal odds heavily favour a Bundesliga switch, with Frankfurt currently 2/5 favourites.
Back in England, Nottingham Forest are prepared to offer around £25 million to bring McAtee in a potential replacement for departing creative talents, though they’re limited by tight budgets.
Other interested parties include West Ham, while Italian side Atalanta have also been mentioned.
A product of City’s famed academy, McAtee earned accolades as England U21 captain, leading his side to the 2025 European Championship and earning player of the final award.
Versatile and creative, he’s seen as a valuable addition for clubs looking to strengthen their midfield or attack.
