Nathan Ake is reportedly ready to leave Manchester City for a new challenge as Atletico Madrid are showing an interest ahead of January.
According to Fichajes, Atletico Madrid have entered the race for Nathan Ake, with the Dutchman left frustrated with a lack of quality playing time at Manchester City. The 30-year-old could seek a change of scenery and look for a switch to the Spanish title hopefuls in the winter window.
The World Cup next summer could have a huge bearing on the activities in the January window, as many players will be looking for a change to gain prominence in their respective national teams. Nathan Ake is one such player who is currently playing a secondary role at Manchester City, given the abundance of talent at Pep Guardiola’s disposal.
Giardiola has used Ake in a left-back role or as a central defender during his time at Manchester City, with both those positions being currently occupied by others. Hence, the Versatile Manchester City star is facing a tough time with regards to quality minutes, which could potentially hamper his place in the Netherlands national side for the World Cup.
There has been some interest from English clubs in the defender, as Manchester City may not necessarily stop him from leaving. They will demand a decent fee in return, as the 30-year-old now ponders an exit to gain prominence and sharpness ahead of the World Cup.
Atletico Madrid are interested in Ake, as the Dutchman now views the Spanish title hopefuls as a viable destination to revive his career. It remains to be seen whether the two clubs can negotiate a reasonable fee for the Versatile Manchester City star, as an exit could be on the cards.
Atletico Madrid looking for a left-sided defender?
Atletico Madrid are indeed looking for a left-sided defender, as there have been links to Andy Robertson as well as Marc Cucurella in recent times. Either of those Premier League full-backs may not leave their respective clubs in January, which has positioned Ake as a viable target in the winter window.
Ake can also be used in a central role by Diego Simeone, which makes him a solid target, as the Dutchman still has plenty left in his tank. The loss of his place at Manchester City is purely down to Guardiola having better quality in the positions Ake tends to play, although he still views the Dutchman as a quality squad option and will keep him for the whole season if given a chance.
