Juventus are among the suitors for Nathan Ake, who is reportedly set to leave Manchester City in the winter transfer window. The Sky Blues have already set his price.
Nathan Ake arrived at Manchester City in August 2020 from Bournemouth for £41m and has rendered great service to the Sky Blues. He has played 153 matches wearing the Mancunian club's shirt, where he has been valuable for his defensive versatility. The 30-year-old Dutchman can notably play in the centre of defence or as a left-back.
However, his influence within Pep Guardiola's squad has begun to diminish over the months. Confined to a secondary role last season, Nathan Ake remains so this season. Thus, whilst he has played eight matches during this campaign, he has only started on three occasions, including twice in the EFL Cup.
Nathan Ake wants to leave Manchester City in winter window
According to information from Caught Offside, the former Chelsea player therefore wishes to leave Manchester City during the next winter transfer window. His objective seems clear: to regain playing time and perform in order to participate in the 2026 World Cup with the Netherlands at the end of the season.
Despite his substitute status in recent months, Ake remains a courted player on the transfer market. Crystal Palace have placed him on their shortlist and are thinking of him to succeed Marc Guehi in central defence, but that is not all. According to the British outlet, Inter Milan and Juventus are also interested in the Dutch international for the winter transfer window.
Juventus and Crystal Palace in duel?
The two Italian giants are working behind the scenes to strengthen their defence this winter and appreciate the Mancunian's versatile profile and experience. For their part, Manchester City are not looking to push Nathan Ake towards the exit, but are willing to listen to offers in January. However, the Sky Blues have set a significant starting price for their defender: between £25m and £30m.
An amount higher than the defender's market value, which is valued at €22m (£18.8m) by Transfermarkt. It should be noted that, according to the same source, “Juventus and Crystal Palace are currently considered the most serious contenders” for Nathan Ake.
This article was originally published on Top Mercato.
