James McAtee returned to actioned for the Blues yesterday for their first pre-season game. Following a loan to the Blades last season, the youngster has impressed City bosses.
He had a slow start to life at Sheffield United before becoming a key player in their promotion charge. They will now return to Premier League football.
With 43 appearances during his time at Sheffield United he scored nine and assisted four.
An important aspect of his development during his loan spell is his strength in defensive duties. Given that he is slight in stature, he is now sliding into tackles as if a seasoned defender – taking a few opposition players down while he’s at it.
The Blues continue to turn down bids for the player, including deals from Premier League clubs worth £30m, as reported by Wiseman and Blackburn for The Sun.
The most recent link is to Wolves, who have enquired about a potential loan for the young Blue. According to Simon Jones for the MailOnline, “the 20-year-old is not short of admirers following his loan spell at Sheffield United last season, who also remain keen.”
However, sources close to the club say there is a reluctance to ship the McAtee off as Guardiola has been impressed by him.
