Everton and ⚒ West Ham have both opened discussions with Manchester City over the summer signing of 22-year-old playmaker James McAtee, sources have confirmed.
City value McAtee at £30 million, and with competition mounting, the England U21 international could become the subject of a Premier League bidding war — unless Atalanta, also monitoring the situation, swoop in first.
“He needs regular football now. Sitting on the bench won’t help him — he knows that.” — Source close to McAtee’s camp
Why Everton Want McAtee
Everton have quietly positioned themselves as serious suitors. David Moyes is pushing for more creativity and youth in midfield — especially after injuries exposed their lack of depth in the 2024/25 run-in.
McAtee’s ability to operate centrally or drift wide makes him a perfect fit for Moyes's evolving system.
West Ham's Kudus Replacement?
West Ham, meanwhile, urgently need to fill the void left by Mohammed Kudus, who joined Spurs in a £55m deal. The Hammers see McAtee as a high-upside player who could be developed into a key starter, with European football to offer as an added lure.
Will City Regret Letting Him Go?
Manchester City have made it clear: McAtee is not in Pep Guardiola’s long-term plans, and an exit is expected. But as we’ve seen with Romeo Lavia, Cole Palmer and others — City’s young talents often thrive when given the spotlight elsewhere.
If McAtee fulfils his potential, £30 million could look like a steal in two years’ time.
James McAtee 2024/25 stats
| Stat (2024/25) | James McAtee | Mohammed Kudus |
|---|---|---|
| Appearances | 31 | 38 |
| Goals | 7 | 11 |
| Assists | 6 | 8 |
| Key Passes (per 90) | 1.7 | 2.2 |
| Minutes Played | 1,890 | 2,740 |
Analyst Verdict
McAtee doesn’t just need a move — he needs a project built around him. Everton offers consistency. West Ham offers Europe. The choice could define his career arc.
What’s Next?
Expect formal bids to follow swiftly. City are open to cashing in — but both Everton and West Ham must now convince McAtee of their vision before Atalanta pounce.
Would McAtee thrive more under Moyes or Potter?
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