NafisaLeeds United’s January transfer plans have taken a hit, with the club’s pursuit of Manchester City midfielder James McAtee appearing increasingly unlikely. The 22-year-old is frustrated by a lack of playing time at the Etihad Stadium and is reportedly attracting interest from a host of Premier League and European clubs, leaving Leeds facing stiff competition.
Leeds, determined to bolster their squad for a Premier League promotion push, had identified McAtee as a key target. The talented midfielder’s creative abilities and top-flight experience make him a valuable asset, but their hopes of securing his signature are now fading.
According to Telegraph journalist James Ducker, McAtee has caught the eye of multiple Premier League clubs, including West Ham, Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest, and Brentford. Meanwhile, European giants such as Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen, and RB Leipzig, as well as Serie A sides Fiorentina and Bologna, are also in the mix.
Ducker wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “#MCFC face battle to keep James McAtee next month. #NFFC, #WHUFC, #BrentfordFC, #CPFC & Bayer Leverkusen, Dortmund, Leipzig, Fiorentina & Bologna all interested. Midfielder frustrated by lack of playing time despite City troubles & favours Jan exit.”
McAtee’s frustration stems from limited opportunities under Pep Guardiola, even with injuries in City’s midfield this season. A January departure is increasingly likely, but Leeds face an uphill battle to outbid their rivals. Manchester City reportedly value the midfielder at £20 million, a price that may be beyond Leeds’ budget.
Pundit Carlton Palmer believes Leeds could still offer McAtee what other clubs cannot: guaranteed playing time. Speaking recently, Palmer said, “Man City would prefer a Premier League move, but he needs to be playing football. Leeds are pushing for automatic promotion. What he needs is to be playing regularly.”
Leeds’ ability to land McAtee may hinge on whether the midfielder seeks a permanent or temporary move. While a loan deal could still favour Leeds, a permanent transfer seems more likely, further complicating their chances.
With Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen now in the race, the odds appear stacked against Leeds. McAtee’s quality and growing list of suitors may well push him out of reach, leaving Leeds to explore other options in the January market.
Nafisa
