Leeds United`s pursuit of Manchester City midfielder James McAtee has received a significant boost with Bundesliga club Stuttgart reportedly pulling out of the race.
Manchester City, who blocked McAtee`s departure in January due to squad depth concerns, are now reportedly willing to sell him during the summer transfer window.
Manager Pep Guardiola has previously indicated a desire to reduce the size of his squad, feeling that an excessive number of players isn`t ideal.
McAtee is understood to be one of the players City are open to selling as part of a squad streamlining process this summer.
The 22-year-old midfielder has attracted interest from clubs in both the Premier League and the Bundesliga.
Newly-promoted Leeds United are among the English clubs interested, as they aim to strengthen Daniel Farke`s squad ahead of their return to the Premier League.
However, Leeds face competition from Bundesliga sides Eintracht Frankfurt and Bayer Leverkusen, both of whom can offer Champions League football.
Fortunately for Leeds, Stuttgart have reportedly withdrawn their interest.
According to reports in Germany, Stuttgart`s decision to withdraw was due to the financial demands of the potential deal.
Manchester City`s reported asking price for McAtee is €20 million, which Stuttgart deemed excessive.
Should Leeds formalise their interest, they will now need to beat off competition from Leverkusen and Frankfurt.
McAtee himself faces a key career choice, potentially deciding between playing European football and remaining in England.
Leeds are also linked with other midfielders, such as Tottenham Hotspur`s Yves Bissouma, who is also reportedly a target for Fenerbahce.
