Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a surprising move for Manchester City academy graduate James McAtee, following his omission from City’s Club World Cup squad. The 22-year-old midfielder now appears closer than ever to leaving the Etihad, sparking increased speculation over his future.
United are gearing up for a major summer overhaul, having already landed Matheus Cunha from Wolves by activating his £62.5 million release clause. New manager Rúben Amorim has been handed a transfer budget just under £100 million, according to The Guardian, with the aim of reinforcing key areas ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
According to The Mirror, United are “still circling” McAtee, just months after The Telegraph reported that Newcastle and AC Milan were also keeping close tabs on him. A move across town to Old Trafford would undoubtedly be controversial, especially given McAtee’s potential and City’s reluctance to sell to direct rivals.
The midfielder spent two seasons on loan with Sheffield United between 2022 and 2024 and featured 27 times for Pep Guardiola’s squad in 2024/25, scoring seven goals. Despite this, his omission from City’s Club World Cup roster — reportedly due to his call-up to England’s Under-21 pre-Euro training squad — has fueled speculation that his time at City is nearing its end.
Back in December, Guardiola openly admitted he had been “unfair” to McAtee due to a lack of first-team opportunities. “Sometimes you feel the responsibility has to go to the senior players instead of the young ones who just want to conquer the world,” he explained.
Guardiola praised McAtee’s pedigree, recalling the standout generation of City academy stars that included Romeo Lavia, Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, and others. “Macca was captain of that group. I told Txiki [Begiristain] I know it’s unfair — we asked him to stay but didn’t give him the minutes he deserved. Still, I always felt he could play with us.”
