Sources: Leicester rivalling Sheff Utd for Man City starlet James McAtee, as Maresca utilises Guardiola connections
Man City attacking midfielder James McAtee on the ball during league match against Norwich
Leicester City are battling Sheffield United for the loan signing of Manchester City attacking midfielder James McAtee, TEAMtalk understands.
McAtee spent last season on loan with the Blades, helping them win promotion back to the Premier League. He struggled initially but went on to become a key player for Sheff Utd boss Paul Heckingbottom, amassing a record of nine goals and four assists in 43 outings.
McAtee is now back at City, and he made a brief appearance during their 3-0 victory over Burnley on August 11.
But interest in his services is rising as the transfer deadline draws closer. Sheff Utd are firmly in the mix, with Heckingbottom eager to be reunited with the England U21 international.
However, TEAMtalk understands Leicester are providing Heckingbottom’s side with competition for McAtee.
The Foxes hope to convince City that McAtee will be better suited to a potential Championship promotion charge with them, rather than fighting for Premier League survival at Bramall Lane.
Leicester may have an ace up their sleeve too, thanks to the connections of manager Enzo Maresca. He has a good relationship with Pep Guardiola, having worked under him as City’s assistant manager between June 2022 and June of this year.
City must now decide where they feel McAtee will develop the most, as he is likely to be some way down the pecking order in Guardiola’s plans this season.
