Exclusive: Manchester City Block Nathan Aké Exit as Injury Crisis Scuppers Barcelona and Inter Milan Pursuits

Manchester City’s 30-year-old Dutch defender, Nathan Aké, has emerged as one of the most discussed names of the winter transfer window. 

However, a recent wave of injuries within Pep Guardiola’s squad has completely shifted the landscape. 

Once considered a luxury rotation player, Aké has now ascended to an indispensable status at the Etihad, effectively ending any realistic chance of a January departure.

Barcelona’s Financial and Sporting Roadblock

In Spain, Hansi Flick had identified Aké as an ideal target to solve Barcelona’s urgent defensive needs. 

The Catalan giants explored a loan formula to bring the versatile defender to the Nou Camp. 

However, sources suggest that Guardiola would only consider a permanent sale in the region of €25 million, a figure that clashes with Barcelona’s ongoing financial constraints. 

With City’s current defensive thinness, the "no exit" policy has been solidified, meaning the Aké chapter is likely closed for Barça this winter.

Italian Interest: Inter and Milan

In Italy, Inter Milan have been working on a structured package consisting of a €2 million loan fee with a €10 million purchase option (which could become an obligation under certain conditions). 

While the Italian giants were aiming for a January swoop, City’s firm stance makes this package practically impossible to accept. 

Meanwhile, AC Milan had also intensified their scouting of Aké, but their interest cooled significantly following the realisation that City will not weaken their squad mid-season. This leaves the Italian market without a viable path to the Dutchman.

The Premier League Landscape

Domestic interest remains high, with Newcastle United placing Aké on their shortlist due to his Premier League experience and tactical versatility. 

Newcastle have made initial loan inquiries, but City are reluctant to strengthen a top-four rival. 

On the other hand, West Ham United saw their advances directly rejected by the player; sources indicate that Aké is not interested in a project currently battling in the lower half of the table. While clubs like Everton, Bournemouth, Crystal Palace, and Fulham have been linked, Guardiola’s principle of maintaining defensive depth during the fixture-heavy winter period remains a significant barrier.

Market Valuation and Contract Status

Financially, Aké’s valuation remains a point of debate. 

While some sources suggest a floor of €25 million, other reports indicate City would demand up to €35 million given the scarcity of left-footed defenders. 

Inter’s proposed €12 million total package falls well below market expectations. With a contract running until June 2027, Manchester City holds all the cards in negotiations.

Conclusion: The "Untouchable" Status

The short-term outlook is clear: Nathan Aké is staying put. 

Barcelona's loan plan is dead in the water, Inter’s offer lacks financial weight, and Newcastle’s pursuit hit a brick wall. Although Aké desires more consistent starting minutes, the injury risks within City’s backline have moved him into the "non-transferable" category. 

Unless City makes an unexpected defensive signing of their own, Aké will remain a vital cog in Guardiola’s machine for the remainder of the season.