Manchester City’s Nathan Aké has emerged as a transfer target for Barcelona in the winter transfer window, as manager Hansi Flick seeks to bolster his central defense following the departure of the injured Andreas Christensen.
Flick has made it clear that a left-footed center-back is essential, as the void left by Iñigo Martínez’s departure to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia last summer remains unfilled and is significantly impacting the team’s build-up play.
Barcelona could sign a new player to replace Christensen, provided their salary does not exceed 80% of the Danish international’s wages. Christensen is currently sidelined with a torn cruciate ligament, which will keep him out of action for at least four months.
According to English media reports, Barcelona is considering a loan deal for Aké until the end of the season, with an option to buy in the summer of 2026 for a fee that aligns with the club’s current financial situation at Camp Nou. The Dutch international has lost his place in the starting lineup at Manchester City this season, playing only 715 minutes across 15 matches in all competitions, mostly as a substitute. He would welcome a move to a big club like Barcelona, even if it meant taking a relatively low salary.
Ake joined Manchester City in the summer of 2020 from Bournemouth for a fee exceeding €45 million. Statistically, the Dutch defender has made 158 appearances for the Citizens so far, winning 10 trophies under Pep Guardiola.
