Manchester City Faces £25 Million Bid from Nottingham Forest for James McAtee

The Premier League club Nottingham Forest is preparing to submit an opening bid of approximately £25 million for Manchester City’s young midfielder James McAtee. Forest’s interest reflects their ongoing efforts to strengthen their squad as they prepare for European competition next season, their first since 1996.

McAtee, who joined City’s academy in 2013 and made his senior debut in 2021, has gained experience with 18 Premier League appearances and contributed three goals. The 22-year-old also captained England Under-21s to their second consecutive European Championship victory last month and can operate as a No 10 or as a winger.

City has recently signed new players such as Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders, and Rayan Ait-Nouri, leading to speculation about a squad overhaul. With just a year remaining on his contract, McAtee’s future at the club appears uncertain as several European sides, including Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt, show interest. Premier League sides have also expressed curiosity, but German clubs seem most likely to pursue a deal.

The midfielder’s valuation has increased, and with City seemingly open to selling, Forest’s bid may be an initial step in negotiations. Other clubs, such as Fiorentina, Roma, and Atalanta, have also shown interest but no firm offers have yet materialized.

McAtee, who has also spent two seasons on loan at Sheffield United, is highly regarded for his potential, and his performances have attracted interest from multiple top European clubs. As City looks to recalibrate its squad, the outcome of this transfer window for McAtee remains closely watched.