According to a report by Graeme Bailey, West Ham have opened talks to sign James McAtee from Nottingham Forest and are prepared to offer a package similar to the £30 million that Nottingham Forest paid Manchester City 12 months ago. The report indicates James McAtee is receptive to the move. It also states that the arrival of Oliver Glasner at Nottingham Forest is unlikely to elevate James McAtee's position in the squad. West Ham's plan, as per the report, is to guarantee McAtee more match time and help in their attempt to return to the Premier League in twelve months' time. The report notes that the £30 million package would be a record price paid by a Championship club.

West Ham United have opened discussions regarding a move for James McAtee. According to TEAMtalk, West Ham are ready to challenge Nottingham Forest's willingness to sell the playmaker. Sources indicate that McAtee is receptive to a new opportunity and is also understood to be receptive to the move. West Ham are prepared to offer Forest a package similar to the one they paid Manchester City 12 months ago. Sources believe an offer of around £30 million could be enough to persuade Forest to agree to a sale. While there is interest from other clubs in the Premier League, sources claim the opportunity to join a club with West Ham's standing and become an important part of their plans is an appealing prospect. Sources have also confirmed that head coach Nuno Espirito Santo wants players with proven quality in the Premier League as part of West Ham’s rebuild and that McAtee matches that description.

West Ham United are reportedly planning a move for James McAtee as they look to reinvest and alter their midfield. The Nottingham Forest midfielder has been a target for the East London club for a long time, and the club tracked him before his £30 million transfer from Manchester City to the City Ground last August. West Ham could offer McAtee the prospect of a prominent role at the London Stadium under Nuno Espirito Santo. Signing the player, who has been described as an ‘exceptional’ playmaker, may not be simple. Nottingham Forest are expected to demand a substantial fee, which is influenced by Manchester City having a significant sell-on clause. With £85 million available, West Ham have the financial capacity to make an offer that challenges Nottingham Forest's intention to keep the player.

It has been reported by the Daily Mail that West Ham are targeting a move for James McAtee from Nottingham Forest and are prepared to test the Premier League side’s resolve. It is unclear what kind of fee it will take to convince Forest to sell. It is understood that the new head of player recruitment at West Ham, Nils Koppen, is pushing for the 23-year-old’s signature. It has been reported that the arrival of a former Crystal Palace boss has strengthened Nottingham Forest's desire to keep the midfielder, but West Ham could still potentially persuade them to sell. It has been claimed that McAtee is still well regarded at Nottingham Forest despite his limited minutes in 2025/26. Forest will be seeking at least the £30 million they paid to sign him.