James McAtee’s ‘most likely destination’ named after Newcastle United’s interest in Man City midfielder

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Newcastle United saw what makes transfer target James McAtee so special on Saturday.

The Manchester City midfielder started their FA Cup third round clash with Salford City, with Pep Guardiola’s side winning 8-0 to advance.

James McAtee scored a hat-trick, at a time when his Manchester City future is up in the air. It has been claimed that McAtee wants to leave Man City, with opportunities limited.

Newcastle United have been linked with McAtee, as Eddie Howe eyes reinforcements midway through the season. The 22-year-old looks ideal for the Magpies, boasting the ability to play on the right of attack and centrally.

Fabrizio Romano shares James McAtee transfer update

But while McAtee could be a good addition to this Newcastle United squad, a move to St James’ Park does not appear to be on the horizon.

That is according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who states that McAtee is most likely to join a club in the Bundesliga during the January transfer window.

He wrote on X: “Bundesliga’s the most likely destination for James McAtee as several clubs want him now. Up to player side and Man City as Bayer Leverkusen, Mainz, Leipzig, Dortmund and Stuttgart have all enquired about McAtee’s availability.”

Newcastle United will hope it is only a loan exit

With a move to Germany more likely, it does not look like Newcastle United will be bringing McAtee to St James’ Park this month.

That is a shame, but not a major surprise.

However, the Magpies will keep a close eye on McAtee’s next move, and will be hopeful that any transfer to the Bundesliga is on loan rather than a permanent deal.

That is because the Daily Mail have claimed that Newcastle United could revisit McAtee in the summer, during a window in which they will have greater capacity to invest.

And given his versatility and clear potential, McAtee certainly should be a player of interest for the Magpies. Valued at around £25million, he would not break the bank either.

However, it does not look like his immediate future will be in the black and white of Newcastle United.