Stefan Borson: Man City could offer star player in Florian Wirtz swap deal

22/04/2025 15:30

Manchester City are putting plans in place for the summer transfer window as they look to improve their squad ahead of next season. 

Pep Guardiola's side have endured a challenging campaign, with the FA Cup providing their only remaining hope of securing silverware this season.

James McAtee has played a bit-part role since returning from his loan spell with Sheffield United last season, having caught the eye at Bramall Lane.

The 22-year-old has registered seven goals in 24 appearances this season, but his first Premier League start of the campaign came in the 5-2 victory over Crystal Palace on 12 April, where he got on the scoresheet.

There is a spot up for grabs in Guardiola's side next season after Kevin De Bruyne has confirmed he will leave the club at the end of his contract on 30 June.

Football Insider revealed on 19 April Florian Wirtz is Man City's number one target to replace De Bruyne following his impressive performances for Bayer Leverkusen. 

Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider the Premier League champions could look to include McAtee in a deal for Wirtz.

Bayer Leverkusen approached Man City with a loan-to-buy offer for McAtee in the January transfer window, but he remained at the Etihad. 

James McAtee set for Man City exit

Borson insisted McAtee is unlikely to have a long-term future at Man City.

He told Football Insider: "I suspect he is part of their thinking in a deal for Wirtz.

"He did make his first Premier League start of the season and scored against Palace last week. 

"But I suspect he hasn’t got a long-term future at the club.

"He fits into the sort of player that the German clubs like to take, develop and then try and move back to England after they’ve added 50-100 per cent on top to bring them back.

"It looks to me like he fits within that category." 

Man City to open Morgan Gibbs-White talks

Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White is another name on Man City's list of replacements for De Bruyne after his impressive season at the City Ground.

Man City are planning to open talks with Forest to assess what it would take to sign the 25-year-old this summer.

Guardiola is said to have been impressed by the England international's performances this season, having registered five goals and nine assists in 32 appearances. 

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