Latest developments
- Borussia Dortmund are interested in James McAtee.
- Manchester City are open to parting ways with McAtee.
- A host of Bundesliga clubs are following the Englishman.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (4/5): Dortmund join McAtee race
Bayer Leverkusen have been trying to sign James McAtee from Manchester City since January, and now they face competition from Borussia Dortmund, who are keen to revamp their attack.
The story comes from the very reputed The Times, which adds Eintracht Frankfurt, RB Leipzig, and VfB Stuttgart are all monitoring the England U21 international's situation at the Etihad.
Value (3.5/5): Dispensable figure
The highly-rated attacking midfielder has spent four seasons on the fringes of the first team, failing to cement himself as a regular despite earning plaudits for his skill sets and potential. City are open to cutting ties with their academy product and are looking to fetch £25million for his services.
Suitability (4/5): Excellent ball-carrier
The 22-year-old can play as an attacking midfielder as well as a deeper midfield role. He is known for his ball-carrying ability and close control, making him a very effective midfielder to play between the lines. Niko Kovac fields a very narrow attack. As such, McAtee could be an ideal option to dominate central zones.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Challenge for Bellingham
In the Club World Cup, Kovac has mostly used Jobe Bellingham as a number 10 behind two strikers. As such, McAtee could come in as strong competition for the ex-Sunderland midfielder. However, the Croatian tactician often used two number 10s in the Bundesliga last season. In this situation, McAtee could partner Bellingham in attack.
Logic (4.5/5): Time to leave
Pep Guardiola has clearly no time for McAtee, who has been pushed further down the pecking order following Rayan Cherki's arrival. As such, the Englishman needs to push for a move away from City. German football has proven to be the destination of choice for young English talents to continue their development.
Whisper+ verdict: 19.5/25
McAtee makes a lot of sense for Dortmund and the reputation of the source certainly demands our attention. However, there's fierce competition for his signature.
