Jul 27, 2024; New York, NY, USA; Manchester City midfielder James McAtee (87) passes around AC Milan defender Alessandro Florenzi (42) during the first half at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Boland-USA TODAY Sports

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Nottingham Forest close in on James McAtee after transfer breakthrough

Nottingham Forest are on the verge of securing the signing of Manchester City midfielder James McAtee, with a deal now said to be in its final stages. The 22-year-old, who turns 23 in October, has been on Forest’s radar for some time and is set to make the move in pursuit of regular first-team football.

🚨🌳 EXCLUSIVE: Nottingham Forest are closing in on James McAtee deal with Manchester City!

Agreement at the final stages for fee in excess of £20m, #NFFC confident to get it done… here we go, expected soon. pic.twitter.com/f2IaMqPHJF
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 11, 2025

McAtee, a product of City’s highly regarded academy, has featured 34 times for the Premier League champions, scoring seven goals. Despite his promise, fierce competition for midfield spots at the Etihad Stadium has limited his opportunities, paving the way for his departure this summer.

Personal terms agreed and fee in place for McAtee

According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Forest and McAtee have reached an agreement on personal terms, with the player making it clear that the City Ground is his preferred destination despite interest from several other clubs. Negotiations between the two sides are progressing well, with the deal expected to be worth around £20 million.

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McAtee previously spent two seasons on loan at Sheffield United from 2022 to 2024, impressing in both the Championship and the Premier League. His creativity, close control, and eye for goal have made him a sought-after talent, and Forest see him as a key addition to their attacking options.

Europa League boost for Forest

The transfer development comes on the same day Nottingham Forest received a major boost off the pitch. The Court of Arbitration for Sport has confirmed the club’s participation in next season’s Europa League, replacing Crystal Palace after the latter were found to have breached UEFA’s multi-club ownership regulations.

McAtee will join recent signings Igor Jesus and Dan Ndoye as part of Forest’s summer recruitment drive under manager Nuno Espírito Santo. The addition of the Manchester City academy graduate is expected to strengthen the squad’s depth ahead of their European campaign and the upcoming Premier League season.

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With the deal moving swiftly towards completion, official confirmation is anticipated in the coming days as Forest continues to reshape their squad for 2025/26.