Manchester City attacker James McAtee reportedly emerges as a potential transfer target for a fellow Premier League side.
Having spent two years on loan with Sheffield United, the City academy graduate was finally handed the opportunity to stake his claim for a regular spot in Pep Guardiola's squad during the summer.
The 22-year-old was subsequently kept in the Spaniard's senior group for 2024-25 having impressed in pre-season, but he is yet to have any notable faith placed in him in competitive games.
Even with City having been dealing with an injury crisis, the England Under-21 international remains without a start in the Premier League or Champions League to his name.
Just 53 minutes have been provided across three substitute outings, with McAtee's three starts coming in the Community Shield and EFL Cup.
Although the playmaker would naturally prefer to fight for his place at City, it appears increasingly unlikely that he will have to contemplate another transfer, either on a short or long-term basis.
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Move to the capital?
According to The Sun, West Ham are contemplating whether to make a formal approach for McAtee at the midway point of the campaign.
The report suggests the Hammers may consider cashing in on Lucas Paqueta if a suitable bid arrives for his signature in the same month.
While it remains unclear what West Ham may look to generate for the Brazil international given the ongoing investigation into alleged breaches of betting regulations, McAtee has seemingly been shortlisted as a straight replacement.
Despite previous interest from City in Paqueta in the past, it is stated they are unlikely to reignite their admiration of the 27-year-old.
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Would McAtee earn regular football at West Ham?
With just three wins coming from the club's 11 Premier League games during 2024-25, Julen Lopetegui needs to be open to change.
McAtee's versatility would given him every chance of featuring on a weekly basis, particularly when West Ham have just failed to score against Nottingham Forest and Everton.
Jarrod Bowen has contributed three goals and two assists during the aforementioned games, by far the best return of any Hammers attacker.
Just over 18 months remain on McAtee's contract, making it plausible that City will consider a sale for the right price.
Darren Plant
