Ten Hag looks to get one over Man Utd by hijacking former club's transfer deal

Bayer Leverkusen are eyeing a potential move for Manchester City's James McAtee as Erik ten Hag looks to get one over on Manchester United, who have also considered the player

Bayer Leverkusen are weighing up a bid for Manchester City youngster James McAtee - who has previously been linked with Manchester United. Erik ten Hag is now in charge at the German outfit and will have to replace Florian Wirtz.

The playmaker is closing in on a £116million switch to Liverpool, which will leave the Bundesliga outfit with cash to spend and a sizeable void that needs filling. They have identified the City playmaker as an individual who could bolster their squad, reports Sky Germany.

McAtee has enjoyed some impressive moments in a City shirt, but is still very much establishing himself under Pep Guardiola, who is known for taking his time when integrating young players into his system. The recent signings may also push him down the pecking order.

He scored an FA Cup hat-trick several months ago and has also contributed in the Premier League. One of those keen on McAtee are the Red Devils. Selling direct to the Old Trafford outfit would prove a hugely controversial move however.

As a result it could open the door for the club's former manager, Ten Hag, to swoop in with City likely to favour selling him abroad if they did have to part with the player.

Guardiola admits he wants to keep the 22-year-old, but would understand his desire to play regularly. He said in April: “For the age, I’d like him to stay. But I understand players want more minutes. He can play different positions but I don’t know how the squad will be and we will see.”

City have seen Cole Palmer flourish since leaving the Etihad. He headed to Chelsea where he knew he'd play regularly and saw his career blossom - which may factor in McAtee's thinking. Conversely, Phil Foden's patience in Manchester was richly rewarded.

Another factor at play is that McAtee’s contract expires in 2026 - leaving the City hierarchy to either hand him a new deal or cash in before he becomes a free agent. The Manchester club have bought and sold well in recent years, meaning they have toed the PSR line well.

McAtee may also see Leverkusen as an ideal destination given how the likes of Jadon Sancho and Jude Bellingham have excelled in Germany. The Bundesliga outfit can also offer Champions League football.