Latest developments
- Bayer Leverkusen have made a move for James McAtee.
- Xabi Alonso is a huge fan of the Manchester City talent.
- City are reluctant to let their young star leave.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (4/5): Romano comes up with a new exclusive
Bayer Leverkusen have approached Manchester City in their bid to sign James McAtee, who is considered Xabi Alonso's first choice option to replace Martin Terrier. The midfielder has been sidelined for the season with an Achilles tear.
🚨⚫️🔴 EXCL: Bayer Leverkusen have approached Man City to sign James McAtee.
Loan + option offered to City; Xabi Alonso, huge fan as he’s 1st choice to replace injured Terrier.
❗️ Man City and Pep Guardiola are reluctant to let him go as feel he can become a regular starter. pic.twitter.com/Z610Z5D5JX
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 27, 2025
Long considered the #1 authority on these matters, Fabrizio Romano needs no introduction to transfer window audiences.
Value (3/5): City not keen on parting ways
The Bundesliga giants have reportedly offered a loan deal with an option to buy the English midfielder. However, City as well as their manager Pep Guardiola aren't too keen on letting the 22-year-old leave.
Accordingly, to convince City, Leverkusen might be forced to pay well over the odds for McAtee, who has made 14 appearances across all competitions this season.
Suitability (3.5/5): Brilliant ball-carrier
McAtee, who can play as an attacking midfielder as well as a central midfielder, is known for his ball-carrying ability.
He likes to combine with his teammates with short and quick passes and has the sharpness to glide past midfielders with the ball at his feet.
For that reason, he could be an interesting option for Alonso if he is looking for a player capable of progressing the play through the middle.
Upgrade? (3/5): Not a like-for-like replacement
McAtee's would-be positional rival at Leverkusen, Terrier, has played on the flanks as well as through the middle under Alonso this season.
Granted, McAtee is unlikely to impress as a left-winger, but with five goals to his name across all competitions, the Salford-born sensation is certainly capable of adding goals and creativity to Alonso's side as a number 10.
Logic (4/5): Push for a new destination
Guardiola is believed to be reluctant to sell McAtee as he feels the playmaker could become a regular starter down the line. However, the Spaniard has so far not handed him a single start in the Premier League.
At 22, the City academy product should be starting regularly to ensure he realises his potential. Accordingly, a move to Leverkusen could work wonders for him.
Whisper+ verdict: 17.5/25
City's stance could make things difficult for Leverkusen but if McAtee shows a desire to leave, this rumour could soon turn into reality!
