Nottingham Forest Closing In On James McAtee Signing From Manchester City

Nottingham Forest are close to signing Manchester City midfielder James McAtee. They have a verbal agreement and the player’s approval and hope to complete the deal in the next 24 to 48 hours.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Forest are trying to finalize a permanent deal for McAtee, which will be worth over £20 million. The 22-year-old has agreed after considering several offers in England and Europe. Personal terms are set, with only a few final details and medical checks left to complete the signing. Nottingham Forest are in final talks to sign James McAtee from Manchester City for over £20 million, according to reports.

WHY FOREST WANT MCATEE

Forest see McAtee as a creative midfielder who can play as a number eight or 10. He impressed while on loan at Sheffield United in the Premier League and the Championship. Forest want more goals and a better transition from midfield this season, and they see McAtee as the perfect fit to advance them to the top half of the table and provide versatility in European play and support their long-term vision.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Forest, who are in the Conference League this season, have had their transfer priorities change from last season due to the need for added depth and flexibility. McAtee would join a midfield group built for technical quality and high work rate. The signing also shows Forest’s willingness to invest in long-term talent, as they aim to move into the top half of the league and succeed in Europe.

FORM AND STANDING CONTEXT

The Premier League is just beginning, but Forest are determined to avoid the bottom spot like they did last year. They need a quick start, as they will be playing in Europe and need to keep fresh. McAtee’s recent seasons have seen steady progress, including goals and assists in various competitions. He gained limited minutes at Manchester City but trained in a top-class environment and captained England at the youth level. James McAtee is set to join Nottingham Forest after agreeing on personal terms, further solidifying his role in the team.

WHAT NEXT?

Forest are trying to finalize paperwork and medical checks within 48 hours in order to register McAtee in time for their next match. They are set for their first Conference League qualifier and their early Premier League fixtures including their opener against Brentford next Sunday, where squad depth will be challenged. If the deal is completed on time, McAtee could make his debut from the bench as he gets used to Nuno Espírito Santo’s system before earning a starting role.