Midfielder 'monitored' by Chelsea last summer now 'attracting interest' from West Ham and Fulham

West Ham United and Fulham are reportedly keen on Manchester City midfielder James McAtee and could make a move for him in January as the 22-year-old has struggled for minutes under Pep Guardiola this season.

McAtee has made just one Premier League appearance this season and so there is belief that he could benefit from a move away from the Etihad Stadium as his potential to improve remains very high. According to the Guardian, interest has emerged from both West Ham and Fulham ahead of the January transfer window as both sides are keen to bring the midfielder who was being monitored by Chelsea last summer.

McAtee is a product of the academy at Manchester City and he caught the attention of many whilst on loan at Sheffield United for the past two seasons. He made 75 appearances for the Blades, scoring 14 goals and eight assists. His contract at City is currently set to expire in 2026, however, there is interest by City to keep him at the club.

McAtee could decide to leave however due to his lack of opportunity under Pep Guardiola this season leaving for either Fulham or West Ham who would both be able to give the 22-year-old more game time in midfield. The report by the Guardian suggests that McAtee could command a fee of over £20m, which could be a good move if he proves to fulfil his high potential.

West Ham looking to replace Lucas Paqueta in midfield

The Hammers have had a poor start to the season which has put manager Julen Lopetegui under pressure. He will be keen to bring in a couple of names in the January transfer window to strengthen his squad. McAtee could help provide some creativity in a midfield that has failed to help with goal-scoring this season as Lopetegui’s side have just 13 goals in 11 matches.

The 22-year-old has been tipped as a future replacement for Lucas Paqueta who could be set to leave this summer amid reports that West Ham are ready to sell the 27-year-old who has previously been courted by Manchester City. West Ham also have reported interest in former Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic who is currently at AC Milan in order to boost their midfield ahead of Paqueta’s potential departure at the end of the season.