Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom has revealed that the Blades had to see off “a lot” of competition to secure the signature of Manchester City attacking midfielder James McAtee.

It has been confirmed that the 19-year-old will spend the season on loan at Bramall Lane and Heckingbottom says he is delighted that the youngster has chosen to join the Yorkshire club:

“James [is] a talented player, someone who is rated very highly at City and throughout football. We are excited to get him. We know there was a lot of interest in him, we registered ours last year but obviously, James wanted to get in the Manchester City squad.”

Premier League teams, including Leeds United, Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth were believed to be interested in recruiting McAtee, while Spanish giants Villarreal were also reportedly keen on signing the teenager.

However, City wanted guarantees over playing time and it appears the Blades did make certain assurances that allowed them to win the race for the player.

McAtee is set to become United’s replacement for Morgan Gibbs-White, who thrived during a similar loan spell last season. Heckingbottom’s side have seemingly found an ideal alternative who already has experience of playing in the Premier League and Champions League.