Update On Leeds United And Their Pursuit Of This Nottingham Forest Ace: What Should Farke Do? | OneFootball

In a recent interview, former scout Mick Brown offered an update on Leeds United and their pursuit of Nottingham Forest ace James McAtee. Brown said,

“Leeds have been made aware of McAtee’s situation.

“He’s not getting games at Forest and it doesn’t look like he’s part of the plans there, so it looks like they could let him go in January.

“The question then becomes whether he will stay in the Premier League, because I’ve always had my doubts about his ability at this level.

“He did well for Sheffield United in the Championship, but Man City didn’t rate him especially highly, and unfortunately I’m not surprised he’s struggled at Forest.

“I don’t see why that would change at all if he went to Leeds, so from his point of view, I think he will want to step away from the Premier League.

“There is interest from abroad, Strasbourg have been spoken about, and I think that’s the type of move which would suit him a lot more.

“There’s less intensity and pressure over there, it will give him the space to develop his game. I don’t think he’d get that if he went to Leeds.”

McAtee’s Recent Form In English Football

McAtee has struggled to earn regular first-team starts at the Midlands club in this campaign so far. The English playmaker has featured in ten matches for Nottingham this season but has failed to score or create a goal for them in multiple competitions.

NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 27: James McAtee of Nottingham Forest runs with the ball during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Nottingham Forest FC and Malmo FF at City Ground on November 27, 2025 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

The 23-year-old is under contract at the City Ground until the summer of 2030, which could make it difficult for the Whites to sign him next year.

What Should Leeds United Boss Daniel Farke Do With Regards To McAtee?

McAtee can shoot the ball with power from long range and has got the eye to create some decent plays for others around him in the final third. He is a good dribbler with the ball as well, but needs to add more goals and assists to his game.

The English sensation mainly operates in the number ten position but can also fill in as a box-to-box midfielder or as a right-winger if needed. However, he has still not proven his worth as a consistent performer in the Premier League and will need time to settle into life at Leeds.

McAtee would add more energy and dynamism to Daniel Farke’s attack. However, he is currently not good enough to secure a regular starting role at Elland Road. Thus, Farke would be wise to focus his attention on someone more proven at the highest level.