Reason why Barcelona are still interested in Manchester City veteran star – report | OneFootball

Barcelona are continuing to evaluate defensive reinforcements ahead of the summer transfer window, and a new name has emerged as a potential option for the club’s sporting department.

As reported before, Deco is particularly impressed with Nathan Ake and views the defender as a strong candidate to strengthen the team’s back line. 

As reported by SPORT, the current Manchester City player fits the profile that both Deco and Barcelona manager Hansi Flick are looking for.

Barcelona’s priority in the market is pretty clear. The club wants to bring in a left-footed centre-back who can offer balance to the defensive structure. 

While the squad already has several defensive options, the coaching staff believes that adding a natural left-sided defender could improve the team’s tactical flexibility.

A perfect fit

Ake has built a reputation in the Premier League as a dependable defender who can operate in multiple roles across the back line.

Under contract until 2027, Ake offers the type of versatility that many modern coaches value. 

He is capable of playing as a left centre-back in either a three-man or four-man defence. 

Additionally, he can also operate as a left-back, particularly in systems where defensive stability is required.

Barcelona are interested in Nathan Ake. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Defensively, Ake is regarded as a consistent and reliable performer, and one of his main strengths is his ability to defend in open spaces, especially when facing quick attacking players on the wing. 

His composure in one-on-one situations has often made him a useful option in high-level matches.

Not the most imposing figure

Although he is not among the tallest centre-backs in the sport, the Dutch defender compensates with strong timing when contesting aerial duels. 

His ability to read the trajectory of the ball allows him to compete effectively despite the physical disadvantage.

Another quality that makes Ake stand out is his tactical understanding of the game. 

He is known for maintaining positional discipline and knowing when to shift inside to support central defenders or when to cover the flank.

For Barcelona, a player with these characteristics could fit naturally into Flick’s possession-based system. 

In fact, it must be noted that Ake’s comfort on the ball and defensive intelligence fit in well with the style Flick wants to implement.