Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca looks on during a training session (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
Chelsea join a growing list of clubs monitoring James McAtee’s situation, with the Blues considering a possible move for the Nottingham Forest playmaker due to concerns over limited game time.
According to the Daily Mail, Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has long admired the 23-year-old and worked closely with him during his time at Manchester City.
McAtee joined Nottingham Forest last summer after playing a key role in England’s victory in the UEFA European Under-21 Championship. The competition impressed McAtee with his creativity.
His move to the City Ground was seen as an opportunity to establish himself as a regular starter in the Premier League.
James McAtee has struggled for playing time.
But that breakthrough has yet to materialize, with McAtee finding it difficult to get playing time amid competition and changes in tactics.
The lack of consistent involvement alarmed many clubs in England and across Europe.
In the Premier League, Leeds United, AFC Bournemouth, Fulham and Sunderland are monitoring McAtee’s situation closely.
Overseas, there has also been interest from RB Leipzig, Bayer Leverkusen, Eintracht Frankfurt and PSV Eindhoven, demonstrating the widespread belief that the midfielder still has huge potential.
Chelsea’s interest is particularly noteworthy given Maresca’s familiarity with the player. Maresca spoke highly of McAtee during their time together during the establishment of Manchester City’s academy.
Chelsea need creativity in midfield
Chelsea are understood to be evaluating midfield options who can act as advanced creators, particularly as they continue to balance the development of young players with immediate competitiveness.
McAtee is not the only midfielder to attract attention for Chelsea. The Blues are also tracking Nottingham Forest’s Elliott Anderson and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton as part of a wider review of their midfield depth and long-term plans.
McAtee remains a valuable asset for Forest, but continued interest and the player’s desire for regular football could shape discussions in future periods.
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