Manchester City and Dutch defender of Ivorian descent Nathan Aké, has rejected a move to West Ham United ahead of the January transfer window, opting instead to remain at the Etihad Stadium and compete for his place under Pep Guardiola.
The 30-year-old Netherlands international, whose father is from Ivory Coast, has found game time harder to come by this season. Aké has started just one Premier League match since February and has made only eight league appearances so far. Despite that, he is understood to be keen on staying at City as they go head-to-head with Arsenal in the title race.
City were reportedly open to selling the defender for a fee of around £21m, putting several clubs on alert. West Ham, now led by Nuno Espírito Santo, identified Aké as a key target as they look to shore up a defence that has conceded 38 goals in 19 league games.
January marks Espírito Santo’s first transfer window in charge, and Aké’s experience, versatility and winning mentality made him an attractive option. However, the former Chelsea and Bournemouth defender is said to believe he still has a role to play at City, where competition for places is fierce.
Since joining the club, Aké has enjoyed remarkable success, winning every major honour available, including playing an important role in Manchester City’s historic treble-winning season. His journey, shaped by European football and African heritage, has seen him become a reliable figure at the top level of the game.
Barcelona have also been linked with the defender as they search for a replacement for Iñigo Martínez, who departed for the Saudi Pro League last summer. But reports suggest the Spanish side consider City’s valuation too high, with a potential loan seen as a more realistic option.
With Aké under contract until 2027, Manchester City are under no immediate pressure to sell. For now, the Dutch defender of Ivorian descent appears determined to stay, back himself, and fight for more minutes in a squad still competing on multiple fronts.
