Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid are keen on acquiring the services of Manchester City defender Nathan Ake.
According to a report from Fichajes, Atletico Madrid are plotting a raid on Manchester City for the signature of Nathan Ake, who seems to have gone down the pecking order under Pep Guardiola. With the Dutch international losing prominence, Diego Simeone’s team see this as a great opportunity to sign the versatile defender.
Ake made a name for himself while playing for Bournemouth. On the back of his consistent performances for them in the Premier League, the 30-year-old ended up joining Manchester City in the summer of 2020.
He has been an integral part of Guardiola’s plans over the years. The Dutch defender has featured in the heart of the defence as well as out wide on the left when needed. He has been equally effective in both positions.
However, things haven’t been that great for him in the last 18 months. He struggled with injuries last season and seems to have lost his place in the team. Ake has only racked up 505 minutes of first-team action in his 12 outings this season.
Since he is no longer an important part of their plans, his future has become a big talking point. With his contract running out in the summer of 2027, the next two transfer windows are City’s final opportunity to raise some funds from his departure.
Atletico are pushing to sign Ake
Even the player might be keen on a move away, as it will increase his chances of being a part of the Dutch squad for the World Cup. Atletico Madrid have emerged as a potential destination for the 30-year-old.
Simeone seeks more quality at the back, as his team have been very inconsistent this season. They have leaked quite a few goals for a team that is known to be rock solid at the back. As a result, the Argentine manager wants to add Ake to his squad, and his ability to feature as a centre-back as well as a left-back can certainly come in handy.
While City do rate him very highly, they can’t guarantee him regular minutes. As a result, a winter move away from the club is quite likely. Atletico see this as an opportunity, and are looking to make the most out of it. Initial contacts have already taken place, and there is a positive feeling about a potential transfer. However, it will be interesting to see if both clubs can reach a common ground.