Crystal Palace are reportedly eyeing Manchester City defender Nathan Aké as a potential replacement for Marc Guehi, with the Eagles preparing for the possible departure of their England international centre-back next summer.The South London club have successfully resisted multiple attempts to lure Guehi away in recent transfer windows, including serious interest from Liverpool late in the last summer window. However, with both Bayern Munich and Liverpool expected to return for his signature, Palace are planning ahead to avoid being caught short.
Meanwhile, Manchester City are also facing key decisions regarding their own defensive core. Manuel Akanji is expected to complete a permanent move to Inter Milan following his loan spell, while John Stones’ recurring injury issues continue to raise succession-planning discussions within the Etihad hierarchy.
That situation has placed greater focus on other senior defensive figures like Nathan Aké, who will enter the final year of his contract in the summer of 2026. Reports suggest Etihad officials may consider cashing in on the 30-year-old should a suitable offer arrive.
According to TEAMtalk journalist Dean Jones, Crystal Palace have maintained their admiration for Aké, having first identified him as a target last summer when Guehi’s future appeared uncertain. The report adds that Aké could become a leading candidate to fill the potential void if Palace lose their star defender.
While Aké remains a trusted option under Pep Guardiola and continues to feature regularly when fit, competition in the defensive department remains fierce with Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, John Stones, and Abdukodir Khusanov all in contention.
Guardiola is unlikely to sanction the Dutchman’s departure unless suitable reinforcements are lined up, given his preference for maintaining depth and experience across all defensive positions. However, expiring contracts and age profiles often force strategic decisions — and City may choose to refresh their backline for the long term.
For Nathan Aké, any move away from the Etihad would likely come down to a desire for more consistent minutes and a defined role. A potential switch to Crystal Palace could offer him regular Premier League action and leadership responsibility, but would mean stepping away from the elite European stage and City’s relentless pursuit of trophies.
FAQs
Q: Why is Crystal Palace targeting Nathan Aké?
A: With Marc Guehi attracting heavy interest from clubs like Liverpool and Bayern Munich, Palace see Nathan Aké as an experienced and ready-made Premier League replacement.
Q: Is Nathan Aké expected to leave Manchester City?
A: Manchester City could consider selling Aké if he does not agree to a new deal before his contract enters its final year. His future may depend on City’s defensive transfer activity next summer.
Q: What other clubs are interested in Marc Guehi?
A: Liverpool and Bayern Munich are leading the chase for the England defender, while other top European clubs are also monitoring his situation closely.
Q: How has Nathan Aké performed for Manchester City?
A: Aké has been a consistent performer under Pep Guardiola, known for his versatility, defensive composure, and tactical intelligence. However, he faces intense competition for minutes in City’s star-studded backline.
Conclusion
Crystal Palace’s interest in Nathan Aké underscores their proactive approach in preparing for Marc Guehi’s potential exit. For Manchester City, the coming summer could bring key defensive decisions as Pep Guardiola looks to balance experience with long-term evolution. Whether Aké remains a vital part of City’s plans or embarks on a new Premier League chapter could be one of the defining transfer stories of 2026.
