Reported Celtic transfer target James McAtee is clearly highly thought of at Manchester City, with Pep Guardiola including him in first-team activities this week.
McAtee actually made an English Premier League appearance for City on Friday night away to Burnley, coming on as a late substitute in the 3-0 victory.
Now, he’s officially been included in City’s 22-man travelling squad for the UEFA Super Cup clash against Sevilla in Athens on Wednesday night, alongside some massive stars such as Erling Haaland and Rodri. [Man City]
The Daily Mail reported last week that the Bhoys are one of many teams tracking McAtee’s situation this summer as City consider sending the midfielder out on a development loan.
However, if Guardiola considers him a viable first-team squad depth option, it could be difficult to convince them to part ways even on a temporary basis. He’s made seven appearances in total for the English champions.
McAtee was a driving force behind Sheffield United’s promotion bid last season, making 37 appearances out on loan and scoring nine goals.
Celtic are also said to hold an interest in Tommy Doyle. Like McAtee, he’s a Manchester City midfielder who impressed last season at Sheffield United.
Doyle has not made it into Guardiola’s plans so far this term and may well be a more achievable player to attract to Glasgow.
The nature of these deals means any loan move might be completed very late in the window. Celtic do have a very good relationship with City and the City Group, which may work to the Bhoys’ advantage.
Head of recruitment Mark Lawwell will also know what buttons to push given he worked there for a decade prior to landing at Lennoxtown.
So, the situation around this pair is definitely worth watching. And it might be worth checking in to see if McAtee gets more than a token cameo against Sevilla on Wednesday night.
In other news, Celtic captain Callum McGregor lauds “outstanding” new signing.
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