Manchester City could lose one of his superstars to a Premier League rival next summer, according to a recent report.
Crystal Palace are in interested in Nathan Ake and are reportedly preparing an ambitious move for the versatile defender with Pep Guardiola’s side open to letting the Netherlands international leave after limited opportunities this season.
Sources close to both clubs, said Palace have been keeping tabs on the 30-year-old since last summer and view him as a ready-made replacement for their outgoing captain, Marc Guehi, whose contract expires at the end of the current campaign.
Manager Oliver Glasner has already confirmed that Guehi will leave Selhurst Park when his deal runs out, bringing an end to his successful spell at the heart of the Eagles’ defence.
The England international is expected to have no shortage of suitors, with Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid all showing interest.
With Guehi’s exit inevitable, Palace are determined to bring in a top-class defender to maintain stability at the back. Insiders have revealed that the London club began exploring Ake as an option last summer, anticipating the need to replace their influential skipper.
Although the deal didn’t materialise then, Palace’s interest has not waned. Ake remains a transfer candidate moving forward, according to a report by TEAMtalk, adding that the club’s recruitment team have continued to monitor his situation closely.
The Dutch defender, who joined Manchester City from Bournemouth in 2020, has been a dependable squad member under Guardiola, contributing to four Premier League title-winning campaigns.
However, competition for places in the City backline has intensified, with players such as Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol ahead of him in the pecking order.
Ake’s ability to play both centrally and at left-back has made him a valuable option for City in recent seasons, but his limited playing time this term suggests his future at the Etihad could be uncertain. He has started only one Premier League game so far, a clear sign that Guardiola is reshaping his defensive options.
Crystal Palace are in interested in Nathan Ake because his acquisition would represent a major coup. His experience in domestic and European competitions, coupled with his composure on the ball, fits perfectly with Glasner’s tactical vision.
The Palace boss, who has placed a premium on organised defending and structured buildup play, is said to be keen on adding a player of Ake’s pedigree to his side.
While Crystal Palace are actively planning for life after Guehi, Manchester City are also assessing their defensive lineup ahead of next summer.
Reports suggest Guardiola is open to refreshing his backline, with the club’s recruitment department already scouting new centre-backs who could fit the evolving style of play.
Sources close to the Sky Blues indicate that City will give serious consideration to selling Ake when the transfer window reopens.
By then, the Dutchman will have only one year remaining on his contract, meaning this summer could be the final opportunity for the club to recoup a significant transfer fee.
- “I am not happy” – Rayan Cherki shares heartbreaking moment of his life
- Guardiola names City most important player, reveals how he helped teammate
A sale, according to those familiar with City’s internal discussions, is now viewed as “a distinct possibility.” The club’s decision is expected to hinge on two key factors:
Ake’s role in Guardiola’s plans for the remainder of the season and the progress of their ongoing pursuit of new defensive targets.
Despite his professionalism and consistent performances when called upon, Ake’s future has long been the subject of quiet speculation within the club.
Guardiola has frequently praised his reliability, but City’s strategy of evolving the squad and maintaining financial balance could lead to his departure.
The Sky Blues, meanwhile, are unlikely to rush any decision. City will weigh Ake’s importance to squad depth against their plans to introduce younger defensive options.
The Dutch international’s professionalism and versatility have made him one of Guardiola’s most trusted rotational players, even if he’s not a regular starter.
