Manchester City defender Nathan Aké’s future is up in the air as he is weighing up a possible exit from the Etihad Stadium in January, with several clubs across Europe monitoring his situation closely.
Sources familiar with the matter have revealed to CaughtOffside that Inter Milan, Juventus, and Crystal Palace are all preparing to make offers for the four-time Premier League champion when the winter transfer window opens.
City are reportedly open to parting ways with the Dutch international if an offer in the region of €30–35 million arrives, a valuation that has attracted multiple interested sides seeking defensive reinforcements.
The 30-year-old has struggled for consistent minutes this season, featuring just five times in the Premier League, which has prompted speculation about his future under Pep Guardiola.
Both Inter Milan and Juventus are said to be actively pushing behind the scenes to secure Aké’s signature. Inter, who are looking to strengthen their defence for both domestic and European commitments, view Aké as a perfect fit for their system.
His ability to operate as a left-sided centre-back, left-back, or as part of a back three has made him one of the most adaptable defenders available on the market.
Juventus, meanwhile, are also in the hunt. With the Turin side hoping to reinforce a backline that has seen injuries and inconsistency in recent months. Aké’s composure, tactical intelligence, and Premier League experience appeal strongly to the club.
While Italy’s top clubs are moving fast, competition for Aké’s signature is not confined to Serie A. Crystal Palace have also emerged as serious contenders, preparing for a potential defensive reshuffle of their own.
Palace eye Aké as Guehi’s replacement
At Selhurst Park, Crystal Palace are bracing for possible bids for England defender Marc Guehi, who has been attracting strong interest from Liverpool, Manchester United, and Real Madrid.
Should Guehi depart in January and there is no clearity regarding Nathan Aké‘s future, Palace could go for the City defender as an ideal replacement — a player with proven Premier League pedigree, leadership, and the ability to slot seamlessly into their defensive structure.
For Aké, a move away from Manchester City could provide the one thing he currently lacks — guaranteed playing time. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico on the horizon, regular minutes could be decisive in maintaining his position in Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands squad.
Despite being one of Pep Guardiola’s most trusted rotational players in recent years, Aké faces stiff competition from the likes of Rúben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, and Abdukodir Khusanov, all of whom have been preferred at various stages of the campaign. The defender’s lack of consistent involvement has not gone unnoticed by potential suitors.
- Manchester City midfielder rejects contract extension offer, ready to join Italian club
- Talented player reveals why he left Man City to join Premier League rival
City, for their part, are not believed to be forcing the defender out. Sources suggest that the Sky Blues are open to “reasonable offers” but would be content to keep Aké until at least the summer if the right proposal does not materialise.
Beyond Inter, Juventus, and Palace, clubs in Spain and Germany are also said to be monitoring developments. While their identities remain undisclosed, interest from La Liga and the Bundesliga highlights the esteem in which Aké is held across Europe.
Should a transfer occur, it would mark the conclusion of a successful spell in Manchester. Since joining City from Bournemouth in 2020, Aké has lifted four Premier League titles and played a vital role in the club’s domestic and European triumphs.
Though not always a guaranteed starter, his professionalism and reliability have earned him admiration within Guardiola’s squad.
Whether he opts for a new challenge in Serie A or remains in the Premier League with Crystal Palace, the coming months are likely to define the next chapter of a quietly accomplished career.
