Nottingham Forest close in on signing James McAtee from Manchester City | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest are edging towards an agreement to sign Manchester City’s James McAtee, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The deal is expected to be worth more than £20 million.

Manager Nuno Espirito Santo is eager to strengthen his squad ahead of next season, especially after Anthony Elanga’s departure to Newcastle United earlier this summer.

With European football on the horizon, Forest are aiming to secure signings who can make an instant impact.

Mcatee will add creative quality to Forest’s squad

McAtee was part of the England Under-21 squad that lifted the European Championship this summer.

The 22-year-old has made 34 appearances for City, scoring seven goals.

With fierce competition for attacking places at the Etihad Stadium, he has been allowed to seek regular first-team football elsewhere.

McAtee previously had two loan spells at Sheffield United. He impressed in the Championship and the Premier League, becoming a key figure for the Blades during his time at Bramall Lane.

McAtee’s versatility will be a major asset for Forest. He is comfortable playing in midfield or on the wing, giving Forest more tactical flexibility.

He has drawn comparisons to former City star David Silva. He is adept at collecting the ball in space, gliding past opponents, and linking play with quick passes or well-timed runs into the penalty area.

While his attacking qualities are well established, defensive work was a weakness earlier in his career. However, his loans with the Blades helped him improve his work rate off the ball.