Luton Town forward John McAtee is highly sought after this summer, signaling his likely departure from Kenilworth Road.

The 24-year-old joined the Hatters in August 2022 after a standout performance for Grimsby Town in the National League. Unfortunately, McAtee’s time at Luton has not been as successful, as he has yet to play a competitive match for the club. Now, it appears he may be sold by the Championship side during this transfer window. Bolton Wanderers initially showed interest in the striker, but now they are joined by several teams, including Wrexham.

Wrexham Enters the Race for Luton Town’s John McAtee

Last week, The Bolton News revealed that Bolton was preparing a move to sign McAtee from Luton. The report mentioned that McAtee was on the club’s shortlist after Luton indicated he would not have regular playing time in the Championship. However, Bolton is no longer the only interested party. According to HITC, Wrexham and several Championship clubs are now competing to sign the Luton striker. Teams like Wrexham, Plymouth Argyle, Blackburn Rovers, Millwall, Derby County, Portsmouth, and, of course, Bolton are all keen on acquiring him.

Wrexham’s Current Attacking Options

Wrexham secured promotion to League One last season and are expected to be favorites for promotion again, despite competing against teams like Birmingham City, Bolton, Peterborough United, and Rotherham United. The Welsh side, known for their financial strength, already boasts a squad capable of performing well in League One. Manager Phil Parkinson has added five new players this summer, although none are attackers. However, Wrexham already has a wealth of options in attack, including Billy Waters, Elliot Lee, Jack Marriott, Sam Dalby, Ollie Palmer, Jake Bickerstaff, Steven Fletcher, and Paul Mullin. These players would likely be starters in most League One teams.

Given Wrexham’s depth in attack, a move for McAtee might not make sense for either party, as guaranteed playing time could be an issue.

McAtee Should Consider His Options

McAtee is likely to leave Luton this summer because manager Rob Edwards does not see him as a key player, and McAtee himself desires regular playing time. Therefore, if he leaves, it should be for a team that can offer consistent minutes, which Wrexham might not be able to provide. Although McAtee would be a strong addition for Wrexham, as he scored 12 goals in the third tier last season, he might not start as regularly as he did at Barnsley. Mullin is central to Wrexham’s attack, and Elliot Lee has also been crucial since joining the club.

While there is potential for McAtee to partner with Mullin, Parkinson typically prefers a more direct player alongside Mullin, suggesting Palmer or Fletcher will have significant roles again next season. McAtee’s 12 goals and four assists last season would place him among Wrexham’s top goal contributors, just behind Lee and Mullin.

McAtee would be a valuable signing for Wrexham, and the club’s interest is understandable given his goal-scoring record. However, considering the number of attacking options Wrexham already has, it may not be the best move for McAtee, especially with other clubs interested that may offer more playing time. McAtee needs regular game time to continue his development, and that assurance might be found elsewhere.