Newcastle United are reportedly keeping a close eye on Manchester City’s James McAtee as they prepare for potential January reinforcements. McAtee, 22, has found regular game time hard to come by under Pep Guardiola despite a stellar loan spell at Sheffield United last season.
The young playmaker has played just 26 minutes across three Premier League matches this season, even as some of City’s senior players struggle to find form. Newcastle, meanwhile, are in search of a left-footed attacking midfielder who can operate on the right wing, a position Eddie Howe has had to fill with out-of-position players like Joelinton and Harvey Barnes.
Additionally, Miguel Almiron’s future at Newcastle remains uncertain. The Paraguayan forward could leave in January or explore free-agent options when his contract ends this summer.
QUOTES:
City boss Pep Guardiola has hinted at the club’s need for reinforcements during the current transfer window but seemed reluctant to let any player leave. Speaking to Amazon Prime, he said:
“We have to add players. Definitely. We struggle especially in the back and in the middle. I think we have to but I don’t know if it’s going to happen. The transfer window in winter is not easy.”
RECALL:
Newcastle’s interest in McAtee is not their only focus. Reports suggest the Magpies are also targeting Southampton’s teenage forward Tyler Dibling. The 17-year-old caught Newcastle’s attention in 2022 after scoring a hat-trick for Southampton’s U23s at St. James’ Park.
However, his brief stint at Chelsea and subsequent return to Southampton has delayed any potential move.
Dibling has impressed this season, scoring two goals in 12 starts for Southampton, but it is unlikely the Saints will allow him to leave during this window.
CITATIONS:
This report is based on claims from the Daily Mail, which highlights Newcastle’s admiration for McAtee and Dibling. The publication estimates McAtee’s value at around £25 million, a sum City could reinvest into their squad amidst their ongoing injury crisis.
KEEP IN MIND:
Newcastle’s ambitions signal their intent to strengthen the squad ahead of a crucial second half of the season. While McAtee could provide creativity and versatility, any deal will depend on City’s willingness to part ways with one of their brightest academy graduates.
