Bayer Leverkusen have reportedly held talks with Manchester City over the signing of James McAtee.
The German side had identified McAtee as their top target to replace Martin Terrier, who suffered an Achilles tendon rupture. The Bundeliga champions have also approached Aston Villa about a loan transfer for Emiliano Buendia.
After learning of McAtee’s rise at City and the 22-year-old’s lack of consistent starting opportunities, coach Xabi Alonso is undoubtedly an admirer.
According to the Daily Mail, Leverkusen have taken the lead by having high-level talks with City after the publication revealed earlier this month that many Bundesliga teams, including Dortmund, Mainz, and Stuttgart, have expressed interest in the highly-rated McAtee.
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With the possibility of regular playing time in the Champions League, Bundesliga, and German Cup, Leverkusen believe the England U21 international will be eager to take on the challenge to join them.
Pep Guardiola has frequently stated that he wants McAtee to stay but has found it difficult to provide him with the opportunities he deserves.
These opportunities may be further restricted by the signing of Omar Marmoush from Frankfurt and the fact that an unhappy Jack Grealish is unlikely to depart this window.
Leverkusen’s negotiations with Villa about a loan for Buendia suggest that they are still not sure the Premier League champions will allow McAtee to depart without a fight. Despite City’s desire to keep their roster together to give Guardiola a realistic chance to salvage their season.
Several Premier League teams are also interested in McAtee, who has five goals this season including a hat-trick in the FA Cup against Salford City.
His current deal at Etihad Stadium is up in just 18 months.
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