Everton are reportedly interested in signing 22-year-old English playmaker James McAtee from Manchester City in the summer transfer window.

According to an update by Sébastien Vidal, Everton are currently in talks to sign James McAtee from Manchester City, though they face competition from West Ham United.

McAtee is valued at £30 million by Manchester City, and it remains to be seen whether Everton can win the race for his signature. The 22-year-old can operate as an attacking midfielder or as a wide player, and his versatility is a significant asset.

Everton may have the financial resources to make the deal happen, and West Ham could also afford the fee. The Hammers need more depth in the final third after losing Mohammed Kudus to Tottenham Hotspur.

Both clubs will be looking to finalise the deal soon. McAtee, for his part, is expected to prefer a club where he can play regularly. Sitting on the bench at a top club won’t aid his development at this stage of his career. The Englishman is a tremendous prospect with a bright future, and he could become a star under the right guidance.

Everton and West Ham are both capable of nurturing his talent over the next few seasons. If he reaches his potential, the £30 million fee could prove to be a bargain. It will come down to which of the two clubs can convince McAtee to join their project. He will be seeking an ambitious club where he can compete at the highest level. Recent reports have also linked him with Atalanta.

Manchester City unlikely to block an exit

Manchester City have made several signings in recent months, and they are looking to further improve their squad. Offloading fringe players like McAtee will help raise funds. Manchester City are unlikely to stand in his way this summer.

It remains to be seen how the situation evolves in the coming weeks. Neither Everton nor West Ham have yet submitted an official proposal. It will be interesting to see if Manchester City end up regretting their decision to let the player move on. The 22-year-old Englishman has the tools to develop into a quality player in future, and he could be playing for elite clubs.