Crystal Palace Want To Sign Manchester City Player That They Want To Sell: Why £40 Million Is Justified? | OneFootball

Manchester City have never been known for giving away young talent. Under Guardiola, the demand for youth players is brutal, and few manage to break through stably. James McAtee is one of those youngsters who have been a source of hope for many, but the door to the starting eleven is still closed. Despite his quality, vision and adaptable profile, reality dictates that his role has been limited to brief Premier League appearances. The Etihad is buzzing with established stars, leaving little room for players who are crying out for a starting place. Now, with the market open, interested clubs are emerging.

Crystal Palace Want To Sign Manchester City Player James McAtee

LEICESTER, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 29: James McAtee of Manchester City looks on during the Premier League match between Leicester City FC and Manchester City FC at The King Power Stadium on December 29, 2024 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Sky Sports released the news that shakes more than one. Crystal Palace have joined the race for McAtee, a talent who has already expressed his desire to leave Manchester this summer. The statistics do not lie, as in the 2024/25 season, he featured in 15 games and only three from the start, something symbolic in a City where every minute is worth gold.

Everton are also watching closely, aware that McAtee can inject spark and attacking quality. According to the same media, the champions are targeting a starting fee of around £40m. The comparison with the Cole Palmer case serves as a basis for marking territory and avoiding bargains.

Why £40 Million Is Justified?

Frankly, it makes sense for City not to go below the 40 million barrier for McAtee. Firstly, because we are talking about a home-grown player, which always adds sentimental and image value. Secondly, because the Cole Palmer reference is clear, a youngster with similar appearances left for that sum for Chelsea. The management knows that to sell cheaply would be to give away the future, and they are not for that.

Crystal Palace must know that if they want quality, they must pay for it. Besides, Pep has never had any qualms about releasing young players when the opportunity benefits everyone. But he doesn’t release them at a bargain price. McAtee is 22 years old, has potential and the freshness that teams looking to make a breakthrough are looking for.

If Palace close this deal, they will add a talent that can be exploited with continuity. For McAtee, it would be fresh air and minutes. For City, it would be confirmation that their youth system not only nurtures the first team, but also generates serious income. That’s how big clubs work. City will not sit down to negotiate for less because it would be to devalue their own structure. Whoever wants McAtee, come with a chequebook ready and a sporting proposal that convinces the boy that leaving Manchester behind is worth it.