Report: Nottingham Forest pursue Manchester City youngster James McAtee

    Nottingham Forest are set to launch a formal bid for Manchester City midfielder James McAtee, as they prepare for the imminent departure of star man Morgan Gibbs-White.

    James McAtee James McAtee

    Forest have reportedly made contact with City regarding McAtee, a player they have long admired. The Midlands club are expected to table an initial offer in the region of 25 million pounds, although City value the 21-year-old at approximately 42.5 million - the same fee Chelsea paid for Cole Palmer last summer.

    The move comes as Forest brace for the sale of Gibbs-White, with Tottenham Hotspur reportedly set to pay 60 million pounds for the 25-year-old attacking midfielder.

    Gibbs-White has been a standout performer for Forest and his departure will leave a significant creative void.

    McAtee, who impressed on loan at Sheffield United, is seen as a potential successor. Forest are keen to reinvest the Gibbs-White fee quickly to bolster their squad ahead of the new season.

    Meanwhile, Manchester City are focused on outgoings and loan deals following the completion of four to five signings earlier in the window.

    Manager Pep Guardiola has made it clear he does not want a bloated squad as the Premier League champions prepare to defend their title.

    The futures of several high-profile City players, including Jack Grealish, John Stones, and Ilkay Gundogan, are also reportedly uncertain, with interest from multiple clubs.