Pep Guardiola wants to keep James McAtee at Manchester City but can't rule out a January exit.

McAtee was on loan at Sheffield United for the last two seasons but stayed with Pep Guardiola's squad last summer with the manager adamant that he wanted him in his plans. That faith is still there, but it has not turned into game time despite the alarming slump of the team, with Guardiola trusting senior stars to come good and only giving McAtee starts in the Carabao Cup (two) and FA Cup (one).

The arrival of Omar Marmoush and the return of Oscar Bobb will only give more competition for minutes in the positions where McAtee plays. Bayer Leverkusen are one of a number of teams to have inquired about McAtee this month and there has been strong interest from the Bundesliga, although City have now filled their quota of six international loans after moves for Kyle Walker and Juma Bah.

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With 18 months remaining on his contract, City have a decision to make on McAtee's future and this month may be the best window to get the best price for the player - especially if he isn't expected to feature much between now and the end of the season. However, Guardiola still wants the 22-year-old as part of his plans.

"He's going to stay. We don't have enough players," the manager said. "We have a World Cup at the end of the season. We have a lot of games.

"I think he can play more minutes. There are minutes he has to fight for and continue to fight. I'm really pleased for Macca.

"At the same time, maybe an offer arrives where the club say we have to sell him. My opinion on Macca that I said to the club is clear but it is always the club and the club has to take resources and sell players and it depends on what happens."