James McAtee edging closer towards Manchester City exit as England Under-21 star plans 'Jobe Bellingham-style' trip to discuss Eintracht Frankfurt move

Manchester City v Salford City - Emirates FA Cup Third Round

James McAtee may take the Bundesliga route if he departs Manchester City this summer amid reports of a trip to Eintracht Frankfurt to discuss a move.

WHAT HAPPENED?

According to Sky Sports Germany, McAtee is set to fly to Frankfurt for a 'Jobe Bellingham-style' trip to discuss a potential transfer to Bundesliga club Eintracht, who will play Champions League football next season after a third-placed finish. The report states the trip is not for a medical and terms of a deal have not been decided as of yet, but the meeting will give all parties the chance to weigh up the chance of a transfer.

Jobe Bellingham Borussia Dortmund 2025-26

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The 22-year-old had limited minutes at the Etihad Stadium last season and is seeking a move in order to further his career elsewhere. Young English players have thrived in Bundesliga moves in recent years, with famous examples including Jobe's older brother Jude Bellingham, Jadon Sancho and Jamie Gittens. Jobe has become the latest to take the plunge and could be followed by McAtee. City have reportedly placed a £25m price tag on their academy product.

DID YOU KNOW?

McAtee shone as England Under-21 captain at the recent Euros and held the trophy aloft after Lee Carsley's side overcame Germany in the final. The playmaker turns 23 in October and will no longer be eligible for the U21s moving forward, so now is the perfect time for him to make a move where he can play more regularly with the aim to force his way into Thomas Tuchel's senior set-up.

England v Germany - UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2025 Final

WHAT NEXT FOR MCATEE?

Regardless of whether the trip to Frankfurt proves fruitful, McAtee has a whole host of clubs interested in his signature this summer which include Nottingham Forest, Everton and Borussia Dortmund. It is likely that the former Sheffield United loanee will be wearing different colours come August, though it remains to be seen which they will be.