Barcelona sporting department ‘like’ Manchester City defender – Deal seems ‘more remote’ now | OneFootball

A January transfer market exit for Nathan Ake at Manchester City is deemed as unlikely following recent developments, a new report has pointed out.

Speculation around the Dutch defender’s future has intensified in recent months, driven by a combination of his reduced role under Pep Guardiola and sustained interest from across Europe.

Everton, Crystal Palace, Atlético Madrid, and Serie A giants Inter Milan and Juventus have all been linked with Aké at various stages, with reports suggesting Manchester City would be willing to listen to offers in the €30–35 million range.

Rumours were fuelled by suggestions that Aké was open to a move that could guarantee more playing time ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite remaining a trusted squad member, the 30-year-old slipped behind Rúben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, and John Stones in the club’s defensive hierarchy when all are fully fit, prompting clubs to monitor his situation closely.

However, City’s defensive planning has been complicated by fitness concerns elsewhere. Injuries picked up by both Gvardiol and Dias in recent days have underlined Guardiola’s reliance on experienced, versatile defenders – precisely the profile Aké provides.

According to The Athletic’s Laia Cervello Herrero and Pol Ballus, one player ‘liked’ within Barcelona’s sporting department is the Manchester City and Netherlands international centre-back, Nathan Ake.

However, while at one point it seemed as though the player could be available on loan in January, the report points out that following injuries to Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias that option seems more remote, and City do not envisage letting him go at this point.

Prior to those fitness issues picked up during the 1-1 draw against Chelsea, it was reportedly seen as unlikely that Manchester City would have been open to letting Ake go on loan until the end of the season without the possibility of a permanent sale.

The update represents a significant cooling of momentum around a January departure, despite Barcelona’s admiration for the player’s technical and tactical profile.

Financial constraints at the Camp Nou have also limited the club’s flexibility in the market, making a loan arrangement the most realistic pathway – one Manchester City now appear unwilling to entertain.

Looking ahead, attention may shift towards the summer window. With Aké’s contract situation continuing to attract scrutiny and City expected to assess their defensive options, a permanent move could resurface if minutes remain limited and suitable bids arrive.