Pep Guardiola urges Man City star not to repeat Cole Palmer transfer move

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted he’s desperate to avoid rising youngster James McAtee becoming their next Cole Palmer

Having failed to secure a place in City’s first eleven, highly-rated McAtee has been linked with various Premier League clubs, including Fulham and Newcastle. However, City are eager to offer their young midfielder a new long-term contract, having reportedly rejected bids worth up to £30million last summer.

The winter transfer window closes on Monday, February 3 and City are expected to get various offers from clubs for McAtee.

McAtee, 22, has entered the final 18 months of his current deal and might be forced to move elsewhere so as to get more playing time.

James McAtee of Manchester City holding the match ball following the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Manchester City and Salford City (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

His situation has now been compared to that of Cole Palmer who left City for Chelsea and is now regarded amongst the best.

Just minutes after McAtee scored his first Premier League goal for City against Ipswich Town, Guardiola made it clear how desperate he is to keep the 22-year-old at the club.

“He is such a good footballer and a lovely guy. Quite similar qualities as Phil [Foden],” the City boss remarked. “It is not easy when you don’t get many minutes for your confidence. Hopefully we can keep James for many years.”

McAtee might force a move away from Man City this January or in the summer. The Manchester club are expected to welcome a host of new signings over the next fortnight, including Eintracht Frankfurt’s forward Omar Marmousch.

The arrival of Marmousch will see McAtee lose further grounds on his way to the first team and he might be forced to be the next Cole Palmer.