"However, according to SPORT, one of the defenders most appreciated by Deco is Nathan Ake, currently under contract with Manchester City until 2027. The 31-year-old Dutch international is viewed internally as a player who could fit both sporting and financial requirements for the Blaugrana. Ake offers versatility, being able to play as a left-sided centre-back or left-back, which suits the needs of coach Hansi Flick."
"Moreover, within club offices, there is a belief that Manchester City might be open to negotiating his departure, considering the depth in the centre-back department. After all, Ake has not been a regular starter under Pep Guardiola this season, playing 1,129 minutes across 24 matches, with only 12 starts, many of them in the cup competitions."
"As such, Barcelona see Ake as a possible market opportunity in the club's complicated financial context. Although the club recently received positive news regarding its salary limit, significant financial caution is still required. The priority investment is expected to go toward signing a centre-forward, meaning that a relatively affordable defensive option could be attractive."
Barcelona's sporting department, led by director Deco, continues squad planning for the 2025/26 season despite the club's decisive stretch and upcoming presidential elections. A new left-footed centre-back remains a priority signing, with players like Alessandro Bastoni and Micky van de Ven previously mentioned as targets. Nathan Ake of Manchester City has emerged as a defender highly appreciated by Deco. The 31-year-old Dutch international fits Barcelona's sporting and financial requirements, offering versatility as both a left-sided centre-back and left-back, which aligns with coach Hansi Flick's needs. Barcelona believes Manchester City may be open to negotiating Ake's departure given the club's defensive depth. Ake has limited playing time this season under Pep Guardiola, making him an attractive market opportunity for Barcelona's constrained financial situation. The club previously considered Ake during the winter transfer window following Andreas Christensen's injury but chose Joao Cancelo on loan instead. Ake remains on Deco's shortlist.
Read at Barca Universal
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