Bayer Leverkusen have initiated discussions with Manchester City regarding the potential acquisition of midfielder James McAtee. The German club has proposed a loan deal with an option to buy, as reported by Fabrizio Romano. Leverkusen’s manager, Xabi Alonso, is reportedly a strong admirer of McAtee and sees him as the ideal candidate to fill the void left by the injured Martin Terrier.
Manchester City’s Stance
Despite the interest from Leverkusen, Manchester City and their manager, Pep Guardiola, are hesitant to part with McAtee. Guardiola believes that the 20-year-old midfielder has the potential to become a regular starter for the team. This sentiment aligns with Guardiola’s recent expressions of a desire for McAtee to remain at the club, as noted in previous reports.
James McAtee’s Profile
James McAtee, a promising young midfielder, has been with Manchester City since his youth career. Known for his technical skills and vision on the field, McAtee has been gradually integrated into the first team under Guardiola’s guidance. His style of play is characterised by creativity and an ability to link up play effectively, making him a valuable asset for any team.
Leverkusen’s Interest
Leverkusen’s interest in McAtee is driven by the need to strengthen their midfield following Terrier’s injury. Xabi Alonso’s admiration for McAtee suggests that the player would be a key figure in Leverkusen’s plans should the transfer materialise. The proposed loan deal with an option to buy indicates Leverkusen’s commitment to securing McAtee’s services for the long term.