Man City make James McAtee transfer 'decision' amid Premier League interest
Manchester City are reportedly set to keep hold of academy graduate James McAtee, unless a replacement can be sourced in the January transfer window.
The 22-year-old, who made his senior debut for the club in a Carabao Cup game back in September 2021, has 15 first team appearances to his name. However, this season, McAtee has played just 333 minutes across all competitions under Pep Guardiola.
A report from The Guardian last months suggested both West Ham and Fulham are interested in signing the youngster. Chelsea previously monitored the attacking midfielder, who would command a fee in the region of £20m.
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However, the most recent update from journalist Alan Nixon, writing on his Patreon, suggests City will keep the fringe player within their ranks, unless a replacement can be signed. It has been suggested McAtee is after more regular first team football, but has been told he won't be allowed to leave in January.
City have struggled with injuries this season and Ballon d'Or winner Rodri is the most high-profile absentee after he suffered an ACL injury earlier in the season. Oscar Bobb and Ruben Dias are also sidelined, while Kevin de Bruyne, Matheus Nunes, Jack Grealish and Phil Foden have also endured injury problems this term.
Guardiola's side have fallen out of the top four in the Premier League standings following Saturday's dismal defeat against Aston Villa. The current champions have won just one of their last 12 games across all competitions and are enduring their worst spell under the current manager.
City have a slightly more favourable run of fixtures on the horizon with the visit of Everton on boxing day, followed by games against Leicester City and West Ham. The upcoming transfer window will also provide an opportunity to bolster the squad, although it seems City are reluctant to let any of their young players go without adequate reinforcements.
