Manchester City set price for “incredible” £41 million star who is set to leave in January

Manchester City's Nathan Ake could leave in January. (REUTERS/Peter Powell)

Manchester City continue their march toward another Premier League title, trailing only Arsenal as the season hits its midpoint.

Rayan Cherki has emerged as one of the signings of the summer, Erling Haaland continues his goal-scoring exploits, and Gianluigi Donnarumma has been reliable in goal.

However, not every squad member has found consistent playing time this season, and Nathan Ake is among those struggling for minutes.

Manchester City are reportedly ready to part ways with defender Nathan Ake during the January transfer window if a suitable offer arrives.

The 30-year-old Dutch international has had a difficult season under Pep Guardiola, starting just one of his eight Premier League appearances.

Despite once being described as “incredible” by his manager, Ake has found opportunities limited in a squad brimming with defensive options.

Spanish outlet Sport claims that City have set a price of around £21 million for Ake, with Barcelona reportedly showing interest in the centre-back.

The Catalan club are looking to strengthen their defence following Andreas Christensen’s ACL injury and Ronald Araújo’s ongoing absence for mental health reasons. However, their financial constraints may complicate any move for the former Bournemouth defender.

If a deal can be agreed, Ake looks set to leave the Etihad in January, allowing him regular playing time while providing City with a useful transfer fee.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider.

Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.