Reports have emerged from Sam Lee of The Athletic stating Manchester City have rejected a bid in the region of £8 million for academy graduate, James McAtee.
McAtee, who made his debut for Pep Guardiola's side in last month's Carabao Cup encounter against Wycombe Wanderers, has also been the subject of interest by Crystal Palace and West Ham but it's only Brighton who have acted on their interest by bidding £8million, as stated by The Athletic's City correspondent.
Graham Potter's side believe the midfielder could be tempted by an accelerated route to first-team football, according to the report, but City have told all potential suitors that he is not for sale at any price as they believe the 18-year-old, who turns 19 in ten days, has a future at the club.
McAtee's current contract situation at the club appears precarious, with the deal running out in 2023 – and top Academy source MCFC Reserves & Academy confirming that the player has been offered a new contract by the club, but is yet to decide on the proposal.
So far this season, McAtee has scored 12 goals in nine games for City's U23's, 21's and 19's. He has also represented England at both the Under 18 and Under 20 levels.
Sam Lee writes that the former Manchester United academy player was noted by Guardiola at the start of the season as one of five City youth players who will feature in the first team this season.
The Premier League champions also rejected several loan offers last summer.
Written by: @TomCayless_
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