West Ham are interested in Manchester City's James McAtee. Credit: CBS Sports YouTube
West Ham are interested in Manchester City's James McAtee. Credit: CBS Sports YouTube

West Ham transfer update as McAtee could push for Man City exit amid £50m news

Harri Burton

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior football journalist specialising in refereeing and officiating; former contributor to The Football League Paper, Late Tackle, and the Premier League; University of Derby graduate. FOCUS Refereeing controversies, football finance and governance, PGMOL decisions, and officiating analysis across the Premier League, EFL, and SPFL. THE INSIGHT Harri utilises a network of officiating and industry contacts to deliver verified, expert analysis of refereeing decisions and PGMOL policy. He provides the regulatory clarity behind the controversy to ensure fans get the full picture.

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James McAtee could push for an exit from Manchester City amid interest from West Ham, according to The Guardian.

The newspaper reported via its website [7 January] that the 22-year-old, who is being tracked by the Hammers and Fulham, could be prompted into a January move if Man City sign Omar Marmoush.

It is understood that the England Under-21s international is in search of more game time ahead of the next youth competition [The Telegraph], with the London Stadium a potential destination if he is to leave.

While a loan move has been mooted, a £25million offer could be enough to convince the current Premier League champions into selling permanently [Mail on Sunday].

West Ham United to thank Omar Marmoush for James McAtee signing?

Letting go of McAtee to make room for Marmoush certainly sounds like a good trade for Man City, and the Hammers might be about to benefit from that exact scenario.

However, with multiple teams keeping an eye on proceedings at the Etihad, David Sullivan and Tim Steidten will need to be quick if they are to secure the 22-year-old's signature.

The youngster has played just 36 minutes of football in the Premier League this term, making four substitute appearances, and does not look to be rising up Pep Guardiola's pecking order.

While it is unclear how much longer Julen Lopetegui will remain at the London Stadium, whoever comes in to replace him will be looking for more dynamism in attack, which he could bring.

West Ham United's London Stadium
London Stadium, the home of West Ham United

During his two loan spells at Sheffield United, he notched 14 goals in 75 total appearances, becoming a much-loved figure at Bramall Lane, and with the Hammers short on goals, this might be the answer.

Of course, it seems a move to East London depends on if City strike their deal for Marmoush, but either way, the Hammers should be pushing for his signature this month.

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