Barnsley loan ace John McAtee is of interest to Sheffield United, a Patreon report from journalist Alan Nixon has said.
Barnsley added McAtee to their ranks last summer, bringing him in on loan from Luton Town.
The versatile attacker had enjoyed an influential 2022/23 campaign with Grimsby Town as he continued his progression with the Mariners after his earned move to Luton. This season, McAtee has kicked on again, this time in League One.
The 24-year-old has 14 goals and four assists to his name in 41 games for Barnsley. Be it as a striker or attacking midfielder for the Tykes, the former Shrewsbury Town and Scunthorpe United youngster has had a positive impact.
Now, with the summer window not too far around the corners, rumours of interest in McAtee have emerged.
As per reporter Alan Nixon, Premier League side Sheffield United are keen on the Manchester-born ace as they weigh up potential targets for next season. There are possible obstacles to a deal though.
McAtee may yet earn a place in Luton Town’s plans for the 2024/25 campaign. And, if both are relegated to the Championship, the Hatters may not be keen on sending him to a rival.
The next step for McAtee
After proving his abilities in League One, and League Two before, it seems like another step up awaits McAtee. That may sting for Barnsley as they risk missing out on the play-offs, as no promotion would almost certainly rule out any slim chances of an Oakwell stay.
The Championship could be the logical move for the versatile attacker. He may well make that step with Luton Town if they drop from the Premier League, but Sheffield United could be a solid option for McAtee if they’re relegated as expected and Rob Edwards’ side stave off relegation.
Regardless of how the season ends for any of the three clubs involved, McAtee will be playing at a higher level sooner rather than later.
