Key Points
- Manchester City defender Nathan Aké has rejected a loan approach from West Ham United this month, as confirmed by multiple sources.
- The Dutch international, capped 57 times for the Netherlands, is open to other Premier League opportunities.
- Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola values Aké but cannot guarantee him regular playing time amid strong competition in defence.
- West Ham proposed a loan deal with an option to buy if they retained Premier League status, but Aké declined.
- Former club Bournemouth remain interested in re-signing Aké, potentially in the summer.
- Crystal Palace have also expressed interest and are monitoring the situation closely.
- Guardiola is hesitant to sanction Aké’s departure unless a suitable replacement or defensive cover can be secured.
- Aké prioritises regular first-team football to boost his chances of remaining in the Netherlands national team setup.
Manchester City defender Nathan Aké has turned down an approach from West Ham United to join on loan this January, sources confirm, as the Dutch centre-back awaits alternative opportunities within the Premier League.
According to a report from TEAMtalk’s Dean Jones, West Ham’s representatives made contact with Aké’s camp earlier this month to explore a potential loan with an option to buy. However, Aké, 30, informed them through his agents that he is not interested in a move to East London at this stage of his career.
Why Has Nathan Aké Rejected West Ham’s Offer?
As reported by TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent Dean Jones, West Ham were keen to secure an experienced defensive addition for the remainder of the season. The Hammers proposed a short-term loan deal, including an option for a permanent transfer contingent upon the club’s Premier League survival.
However, Jones noted that Aké “has no desire to move to East London,” citing his preference for a club offering consistent game time and a stable competitive environment. Aké’s decision is also influenced by his aspirations to play regularly in order to maintain his international form for the Netherlands ahead of upcoming UEFA competitions.
Sky Sports’ Kaveh Solhekol similarly reported that West Ham’s enquiry did not progress beyond initial contact after “the player communicated his reluctance to leave Manchester City for the London Stadium.”
What Is Manchester City’s Stance on Aké’s Future?
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola holds Aké in high regard, according to multiple sources. Writing for The Athletic, Sam Lee stated that Guardiola “appreciates Aké’s professionalism and versatility” but acknowledges that the defender cannot be guaranteed consistent minutes, given the strength of City’s backline and the presence of Ruben Dias, Manuel Akanji, Josko Gvardiol, and John Stones.
Guardiola is believed to be pragmatic regarding Aké’s potential departure but would only sanction a transfer if the club secures adequate depth in defence. As reported by Manchester Evening News, sources close to the Etihad hierarchy emphasised that “City would only consider offers that make sense strategically,” especially with multiple competitions to navigate.
Guardiola himself has not made any public comment about Aké’s situation so far, preferring to wait until the January window unfolds fully.
Which Other Clubs Are Interested in Aké?
TEAMtalk’s Dean Jones revealed that Aké’s former club Bournemouth remain “attentive” to developments. The Cherries are reportedly considering a summer move rather than pushing in January. Journalist Mark McAdam of Sky Sports echoed this view, explaining that Bournemouth “would love to bring Aké back” to the Vitality Stadium, where he was a mainstay before his £41 million move to Manchester City in 2020.
Meanwhile, Evening Standard football writer Dom Smith reported that Crystal Palace have asked to be kept “informed of Aké’s situation,” suggesting that Palace boss Oliver Glasner views the Dutchman as a potential defensive upgrade.
According to Jones, Palace’s approach is “exploratory rather than concrete,” dependent on potential outgoings such as Marc Guéhi or Joachim Andersen, who have both attracted external interest.
What Are Aké’s Motivations for Seeking Playing Time?
Aké’s consistent theme across recent seasons has been his desire to feature regularly. He was a vital part of City’s treble-winning squad but has seen limited involvement in recent months. As highlighted by The Guardian’s Jamie Jackson, Aké “wants assurances of regular football” as he looks to solidify his place in the Dutch national team under Ronald Koeman.
With the next international window approaching and competitions like the UEFA Nations League looming, Aké’s priority remains competitive match fitness. That said, leaving a club like Manchester City, where he has won multiple titles, is not a decision he will take lightly.
What Would Aké’s Departure Mean for Manchester City?
If Aké were to depart in January or later, it would raise questions about City’s defensive depth. John Stones and Ruben Dias have both faced injuries this season, leaving Guardiola reliant on Manuel Akanji and Josko Gvardiol.
Speaking on talkSPORT, former City defender Micah Richards analysed that “losing Aké mid-season would be a risky move for Guardiola,” given his adaptability to different roles along the defensive line. Aké’s ability to fill in at left-back, centre-back, and occasionally in midfield adds value that makes him difficult to replace quickly.
However, City’s pursuit of a long-term replacement — such as RB Leipzig’s young defender Castello Lukeba, as reported by 90min’s Graeme Bailey — could factor into their decision-making process if Aké pushes for a summer move.
Could Aké Still Leave City This Season?
While Aké’s immediate future appears tied to Manchester City, the transfer window remains open. ESPN’s Rob Dawson reported that “City officials are not ruling out further outgoing movement” should a suitable offer be made and squad balance maintained.
Given the growing interest from Premier League rivals, a late-window request could still tempt City to negotiate. Crystal Palace, in particular, could intensify their pursuit if they free up funds through player sales. Bournemouth’s long-term interest also keeps the door open for a potential Etihad exit later in 2025.
For now, TEAMtalk’s Dean Jones concluded that
“Aké is waiting for clarity from Guardiola and City before making any decisions about his next step.”
What Does the Situation Reveal About Manchester City’s Transfer Strategy?
Manchester City’s measured approach to player sales continues to define their transfer window conduct. As The Telegraph’s James Ducker pointed out, City “operate on a principle of controlled squad evolution rather than reactive sales.” They prefer to maintain stability in their defensive unit whilst optimising opportunities for emerging talents like Rico Lewis.
Aké’s case underscores Guardiola’s balancing act between maintaining competition for places and accommodating players’ professional ambitions. Should City resist releasing Aké, it reaffirms their long-standing stance against mid-season weakening, a strategy that has underpinned their recent dominance.
What Happens Next for Aké?
The Dutch defender remains committed to performing at Manchester City but is expected to re-evaluate his position once the January transfer window concludes. If regular minutes remain scarce, a summer move could become viable — particularly if Bournemouth or Palace formalise their interest.
As of now, City hold all the cards, with Guardiola’s side still challenging in the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League. Aké’s immediate focus will likely remain on contributing whenever called upon while keeping his options open for the future.
