Sources: 'Surprise' update on Man City re-signing James McAtee from Nottingham Forest

Manchester City are not pursuing a buy-back option on McAtee despite his strong form at Nottingham Forest this season.

Reports had suggested Manchester City could exercise a buy-back clause to re-sign James McAtee from Nottingham Forest, less than two years after selling him for £30 million in August 2025. However, sources have told Football Insider that City are not currently keen on bringing the 24-year-old midfielder back to the Etihad.

McAtee has impressed this season under Oliver Glasner, featuring regularly in Forest's midfield after a difficult first campaign at the club. He has already accumulated eight Premier League starts this term, far exceeding his two appearances from the previous season. The midfielder has formed an effective partnership with summer signing Xaver Schlager and remains a key part of Glasner's plans, with his contract running until 2030.

City made significant midfield additions in the summer transfer window and are not believed to be considering a return for the academy graduate at this stage.