Manchester City have reportedly set a €25 million asking price for their star player linked to FC Barcelona ahead of the January transfer window.
Barcelona’s plans for the transfer window have taken on greater urgency as injuries and uncertainty continue to thin their defensive options. With the market about to open, the Catalan club are scanning for a central defender who can provide immediate cover, even if only for the short term and Nathan Ake fits the role perfectly.
Financial limitations mean ambition is being balanced carefully with realism, and that balance is shaping every discussion taking place behind the scenes.
Hansi Flick’s first months in charge have been complicated by problems at the back. Andreas Christensen’s long-term ACL injury has removed a reliable presence from central defence, while doubts persist over the future and availability of Ronald Araujo.
Sporting director Deco has therefore been tasked with identifying a solution that can help immediately without compromising future plans.
One name to surface in recent days is Manchester City defender Nathan Ake. The Netherlands international has found himself on the fringes of Pep Guardiola’s side this season, with competition for places intense at the Etihad Stadium.
His versatility, experience at the highest level and left-footed balance make him an attractive option for Barcelona, particularly given their immediate needs.
From the player’s perspective, a move to Camp Nou would hold appeal. Regular football is a key consideration, and Barcelona could offer him a prominent role during a crucial period of the season.
However, interest alone does not guarantee a deal, and the realities of negotiation have quickly highlighted the gap between desire and possibility.
Reports suggest that Manchester City are unwilling to sanction a mid-season departure for Ake, despite his reduced involvement.
Guardiola is known for valuing squad depth, especially during the demanding second half of the campaign, and City are reluctant to weaken their defensive options while still competing for major honours.
Crucially, City’s stance extends to the structure of any potential deal. Loan offers are not being entertained, meaning Barcelona’s preferred route is effectively blocked.
However, according to Sport, City have set a clear price tag of €25m for a permanent transfer, a figure that reflects both the player’s pedigree and the club’s negotiating position.
Manchester City’s firm stance and Barcelona’s financial reality
The €25m valuation presents a significant obstacle. Ake’s contract is set to expire in around 18 months, a factor that might usually reduce a player’s market value.
Yet City’s asking price suggests they see no urgency to sell and are prepared to keep the defender unless their terms are met.
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For Barcelona, those terms are simply unrealistic. The club is not in a position to commit that level of spending in January, particularly for a player who would be viewed as a short-term fix rather than a cornerstone signing.
Every euro spent now reduces flexibility later, and the summer window is already being earmarked for major reinforcements.
As things stand, Barcelona have no intention of pursuing a deal for Ake at that price. The numbers do not align with their strategy, and there is little appetite to stretch finances for a player who may not fit into long-term plans.
Instead, the club are expected to monitor the situation closely, hoping that Manchester City’s position softens as the window progresses.
January transfer windows are often shaped by circumstance as much as strategy. Injuries, fixture congestion and unexpected developments can force clubs to reassess their priorities.
Barcelona will be hoping that if City’s defensive situation changes, or if Ake’s contract situation and lack of game time continues, there may be room for compromise later in the month.
