According to SPORT, Barcelona are preparing to strengthen their defense in the winter transfer window. With Christensen sidelined with a long-term injury, the club has essentially decided to reinforce their backline this winter, and Manchester City defender Nathan Aké's name is increasingly gaining prominence in internal discussions.
Barcelona have received offers from both Nathan Aké and Chelsea defender Disasi. However, Aké's technical characteristics and match experience better suit Barcelona's current transfer needs. The Dutch international is positive about joining Barcelona, but realistically, leaving Manchester City will be difficult.
From a sporting perspective, Aké has had limited playing time at Manchester City this season. He wants more playing time, but under Pep Guardiola, competition within the team is extremely fierce. So far this season, Aké has only played slightly over 700 minutes, making only one start in the Premier League. Considering his expected starting position in the next World Cup for the Netherlands, Aké wants a more significant role at the club level.
Journalist Ekrem Konur confirmed Barcelona's interest in Aké, while also noting that Manchester City is not accepting a simple loan deal. The club prefers a direct transfer or including Aké in a swap deal to acquire other players. This approach differs from Barcelona's current plans, which only consider loan deals with an option to buy, and the transfer window is generally limited to six months.
Technically, Aké is considered a perfect fit for Barcelona's needs. He's a left-footed center-back, capable of playing central defense and also filling in at full-back, possessing excellent passing ability and extensive international experience. Aké himself is willing to join, provided both clubs agree on the terms. While this transfer route is complex, the possibilities remain to be seen as the winter transfer window progresses.
Financially, assuming a loan deal, the associated costs would theoretically be within Barcelona's current salary cap constraints. However, the club's sporting management is also simultaneously evaluating other options, hoping to acquire a player with development potential and some international experience. If a young player is involved, the approach might require a loan deal with a mandatory buy-out clause to balance the overall figures. Currently, Barcelona doesn't face immediate pressure to make a move, but within the next 15 days, the club needs to officially register Christensen for injury to fully utilize the transfer rules for recruitment. Aké's priority is clearly rising in the selection of experienced defenders.
Meanwhile, Aké also has other options in the Premier League. As many as four clubs have contacted him, including some, such as West Ham United, willing to pay a transfer fee upfront. Since Aké's contract with Manchester City expires in 2027, his transfer price is considered to be negotiable. At this stage, Barcelona remains in a relatively advantageous position and chooses to continue to observe market trends.