Atletico Madrid are reportedly keen on Manchester City defender Nathan Ake.
Manchester City are preparing for a significant squad overhaul ahead of next season, with several key players potentially heading for exits. Among them, Dutch defender Nathan Ake has emerged as a serious target for Atletico Madrid, as Diego Simeone looks to strengthen his backline as per Fichajes.
Amid a disappointing campaign that saw Pep Guardiola’s side crash out of the UEFA Champions League and struggle to compete for a top-four finish, City are ready to make major changes. While the focus has largely been on midfield and attacking reinforcements, defensive restructuring is also on the agenda, with Ake’s future now in question.
The 28-year-old Dutch international, who joined Manchester City from Bournemouth for £40 million in 2020, has played a crucial role in Guardiola’s squad, offering versatility as both a centre-back and a left-back. However, with City looking to refresh their squad, Ake could be one of the names sacrificed to make way for new defensive options.
One size fits all
Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid are eager to reinforce their defence after an inconsistent season, and Ake’s adaptability makes him an appealing option. His ability to play as a left-sided centre-back or left-back fits well into Atletico’s tactical framework, providing the defensive depth they urgently need.
With Mario Hermoso’s contract expiring and uncertainty surrounding other defensive options, securing a reliable and experienced player like Ake would be a strategic move for the Rojiblancos. Moreover, his ball-playing ability and tactical intelligence align with Simeone’s evolving approach, which has recently incorporated more progressive build-up play.
A summer of change
While Manchester City are yet to officially list Ake for transfer, their willingness to reshape the squad could see them entertain offers. The Dutchman is still valued highly by City, given his solid performances, but a lucrative offer from Atletico Madrid might tempt the club into negotiating a deal.
The Spanish giants are expected to test Manchester City’s resolve with an initial bid, though it remains unclear how much the Premier League champions would demand. Given that City originally signed Ake for £40 million, any deal would likely need to surpass that figure for a transfer to materialize.
Aké’s future remains uncertain, but Atletico Madrid’s interest signals a potentially big move to La Liga in the upcoming transfer window. Whether Manchester City are willing to part ways with the Dutch defender will depend on their recruitment strategy and summer transfer priorities.
With Bernardo Silva and Jeremy Doku also attracting interest from La Liga clubs, the summer window could see a major reshuffling of Manchester City’s squad, one that might lead Nathan Ake to Estadio Metropolitano.
