Man United monitoring Man City youngster James McAtee amid uncertain future

James McAtee’s future at Manchester City is under scrutiny as he enters the final year of his contract, with several top clubs, including Manchester United, keeping a close eye on his situation.

The 22-year-old playmaker is reportedly weighing his options, despite Pep Guardiola’s desire to retain him at the Etihad.

McAtee has made 13 appearances in the Premier League this season, but his path to regular minutes could become more challenging if Man City pursue their interest in Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz or Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White.

Both players are on City’s radar, especially after it was confirmed that club legend Kevin De Bruyne will depart at the end of the season.

While McAtee may hope to benefit from De Bruyne’s exit, City are likely to sign a ready-made replacement who can slot straight into Guardiola’s system.

The England U-21 international was handed just his second league start of the season on Tuesday, helping City secure a crucial 2-1 win over Aston Villa to bolster their Champions League qualification hopes.

McAtee has made 13 appearances in the Premier League this season

Despite limited opportunities, McAtee’s performances have caught the attention of several top European clubs.

According to The Telegraph, Bayer Leverkusen and Nottingham Forest are both interested in McAtee as a potential replacement for their departing midfielders.

Manchester United, Newcastle United, and AC Milan are also among the clubs monitoring his situation.

James McAtee’s profile aligns with United’s recruitment strategy of targeting young, talented players who can develop together within the squad.

Guardiola recently admitted that he is unsure whether McAtee will remain at the club beyond the summer.

“For the age, I’d like him to stay,” Guardiola said.

“But I understand the players want more minutes. I would like him to stay, he’s a player for the academy, he knows the patterns.

“He’s a lovely person and trained really good. He can play different positions but I don’t know how the squad will be and we will see.”