Leeds United Eyeing January Loan Move for Manchester City’s “Exceptional” Youngster James McAtee
Leeds United are reportedly interested in signing Manchester City’s talented youngster James McAtee on a loan deal in January. The 22-year-old creative midfielder has struggled for playing time under Pep Guardiola this season.
Leeds’ Promotion Push
Daniel Farke’s side is currently third in the Championship, with a trip to Swansea City upcoming. Victory could propel Leeds into the automatic promotion places. To bolster their promotion bid, Leeds are exploring January signings.
James McAtee: The Target
McAtee, praised by Micah Richards for his exceptional strike and guile, could bring extra magic to Leeds’ promotion push. His creativity and ability to unlock defenses would be valuable assets.
Manchester City’s Stance
The reigning Premier League champions are willing to let McAtee go out on loan, prioritizing his development. A permanent deal could also be on the cards, although Leeds would face competition from West Ham.
McAtee’s Past Experience
The youngster has enjoyed two successful loan spells at Sheffield United, contributing 22 goals and assists in 75 appearances. His experience in the Championship would make him an excellent fit for Leeds.
Pep Guardiola’s Praise
Guardiola highlighted McAtee’s quality against teams that play deep, saying: “(Against) teams who play so deep he has the quality to find it.” This skillset would benefit Leeds in their promotion bid.
Kalvin Phillips Comparison
Leeds thought they had the next Kalvin Phillips, but now he’s in the third tier. McAtee could fill the void left by Phillips’ departure.
Permanent Deal Possibility
If Leeds secure promotion and have the funds, a permanent deal for McAtee could be explored in summer 2025.
EFL Championship Transfer Rumors
This move would bolster Leeds’ midfield options and provide Farke with the extra depth needed for the Championship’s relentless fixture schedule.
Related Topics:
James McAtee
Leeds United
Manchester City
Championship
Transfer Rumors
Sources:
FootballFanCast
Valnet Publishing Group
Additional Sections:
James McAtee’s Career Statistics
- Games: 75
- Goals: 14
- Assists: 8
- Pass completion rate: 85%
Micah Richards’ Praise for McAtee
- “Where’s he from? Where’s he from? The way he moves, the guile on him, you can tell he’s been brought up the correct way, can’t we? Always looking to get on the ball, lovely, both-footed but his strike was exceptional.”
Pep Guardiola’s Comments on McAtee
- “(Against) teams who play so deep he has the quality to find it.”
Leeds United’s Championship Form
- Position: 3rd
- Points: 30
- Goals scored: 25
- Goals conceded: 15
Championship Promotion Race
- Leeds United (3rd)
- Sunderland (2nd)
- Sheffield United (1st)
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