Leicester City have missed out on the chance to sign Manchester City midfielder James McAtee after he agreed a loan return to Sheffield United, as confirmed by journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The England U21s international was viewed as the replacement for James Maddison at Leicester, but it now appears as though McAtee has opted to stay in the Premier League and return to Bramall Lane.
Who is James McAtee?
The attacking midfielder has risen through the ranks at the Etihad Stadium, alongside the likes of Callum Doyle and Phil Foden. Last season, McAtee enjoyed his first senior loan spell with Sheffield United, making 43 appearances and contributing to 13 goals.
McAtee has earned three caps for the England U21s and has featured in the Premier League this season, coming off the bench during City’s 3-0 win against Burnley on the opening weekend of the season.
The perfect start
Leicester City are the only side in the Championship that has a 100% record after their opening four league games. They also sit two points ahead at the top of the league table.
The Foxes came from behind to beat Coventry, before picking up wins against Huddersfield, Cardiff City and Rotherham United, proving that despite losing Harvey Barnes and James Maddison, the club can still pick up wins in a new era for the side.
What’s been said?
Journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news on Twitter by posting the following update…
‘James McAtee leaves Man City and he joins Sheffield United on loan, here we go!
‘McAtee was tempted by Leicester as Maresca wanted him but lure of the Premier League and emotional connection to Sheffield United too much.’
Writer’s View
Missing out on a player like James McAtee is a huge now for Leicester City but it could imply that the Foxes are still looking to add in that position with QPR’s Ilias Chair being another name that’s been linked with the club.
So far, Leicester haven’t seemed to be at a loss after Harvey Barnes and James Maddison were sold, which could create an argument that they don’t need to strengthen in that area, but we await to find out.
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