Sheffield United are looking to sign Manchester City starlet James McAtee on loan for the second successive season, according to a report from The Sun.

McAtee played a major role in the Blades’ promotion campaign last season. With a tough season on the horizon for United, bringing in a former fan favourite could be just what the doctor ordered.

With that being said, will City be willing to send him out on loan again – especially to a team in the same division as themselves?

Could James McAtee have a role to play in the first team for Manchester City this season?

For all of McAtee’s talent and what he brings to the team, it is difficult to see him being anything more than a fringe player in the CIty squad this season if Pep Guardiola chooses to keep him at the Etihad Stadium.

First of all, McAtee is most comfortable when deployed in the number ten role. City’s current formation does not accommodate this position – instead, he would likely have to play in central midfield or out wide, instead.

Secondly, there are simply better options in both of these positions. It is difficult to see the Salford-born boy getting gametime over the likes of Jack Grealish, Phil Foden and Kevin De Bruyne at this point in his fledgling career.

Would a move to Sheffield United aid James McAtee’s development?

McAtee moving to the Blades on a loan transfer this season would likely be the best option for all parties involved. As we have established, it isn’t likely that McAtee will be given much of a chance in the City first team – therefore, a season in the United first team will help him to grow as a player.

Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom knows how to get the best out of the youngster – moreover, it’s highly likely that he would be a constant presence in their senior team and starting XI.

The only potential drawback here is that McAtee may enjoy his stay in South Yorkshire a little too much. He had a great season on loan at Bramall Lane last season – the last thing that City will want is to lose such a talented youngster on a permanent basis.