- Bayer Leverkusen is interested in Manchester City’s young midfielder James McAtee as a potential replacement for the injured Martin Terrier
- Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso sees McAtee as an ideal fit for the team’s offensive needs
- Leverkusen has proposed a loan deal with an option to buy, but Manchester City has not yet decided on McAtee’s availability
- McAtee has scored 5 goals in 14 appearances this season, including his first Premier League goal in a 6-0 win over Ipswich
- If a deal for McAtee fails, Leverkusen may target Emiliano Buendía from Aston Villa
Key Takeaways:
Bayer Leverkusen, the reigning champions of Germany, are pursuing Manchester City’s young attacking midfielder James McAtee. According to journalists Fabrizio Romano and Florian Plettenberg, Leverkusen sees McAtee as a key addition to their squad, especially in light of Martin Terrier’s season-ending injury.
🚨🔴 Now that the door has reopened, Bayer 04 Leverkusen are trying to secure James #McAtee!
Leverkusen now in direct talks with ManCity. Official offer about a loan with an option to buy has been submitted. #MCFC
❗️If the transfer falls through, the top alternative is… pic.twitter.com/B1INdERwwm
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) January 27, 2025
Xabi Alonso has identified McAtee as the ideal candidate to strengthen the team’s offensive options. The German club has reportedly submitted a loan offer with an option to purchase the player. However, it remains unclear whether Manchester City is willing to let the 22-year-old leave during this window.
McAtee has had limited opportunities under Pep Guardiola this season, primarily featuring as a substitute. He has made 14 appearances and scored 5 goals so far, including three in the FA Cup against lower-tier Salford. Recently, he notched his first Premier League goal during Manchester City’s 6-0 away victory over Ipswich. Earlier in his career, McAtee was loaned out twice to Sheffield United, where he gained valuable experience.
If Leverkusen fails to secure McAtee’s services, the club is reportedly considering Emiliano Buendía of Aston Villa as an alternative target. The search for reinforcements highlights Leverkusen’s intent to maintain their competitive edge this season.