James McAtee of Manchester City goes past Dean Henderson of Crystal Palace to score a goal. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Report: Player who is 'like Odegaard' is on Tottenham shortlist after Gibbs-White blow

Originally posted on the Boy Hotspur | Last updated Jul 27, 2025 4:30 PM ET

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly keeping tabs on the Manchester City attacking midfielder James McAtee after failing to sign Morgan Gibbs-White.

The Nottingham Forest midfielder has signed a new contract with his club, and he will not leave them this summer. Tottenham are now looking at other options. According to journalist Graeme Bailey, McAtee is on their radar. Tottenham are looking at Xavi Simons as well.

Tottenham are looking at attacking options

“They have held talks with other players in recent weeks, the likes of Xavi Simons and James McAtee to name but two, there are options for them and they will move on, and they need to,” added Bailey.

McAtee is highly rated in England, and he has a bright future. He was outstanding for his country in the Under-21 European Championship earlier this summer. He has shown his quality with Manchester City during his cameos. He needs to join a club where he will play regularly. He has the talent to develop into a top-class Premier League player.

McAtee has been previously described as a player who is “like Odegaard” from Arsenal.

James McAtee would improve Tottenham

The move to Tottenham could be ideal for him, and it will be interesting to see if the London outfit follows up on their interest with an offer to sign him. He could be a long-term asset for them. If they can groom him properly, he could be a future star.

McAtee is capable of operating centrally as well as in wide areas. He will add some much-needed unpredictability and cutting edge in the final third. Tottenham need more players like him if they want to build a formidable squad for the future. This is a golden opportunity for them to snap him up, and they must not pass up on the chance.

Manchester City will not be able to provide him with regular opportunities, and the player will be keen on an exit. It remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.

This article first appeared on the Boy Hotspur and was syndicated with permission.

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