Barcelona are ready to bolster their defensive ranks this winter, with a high-profile center-back now at the top of their January wishlist. This pursuit comes alongside the imminent return of João Cancelo, who is joining on a short-term loan from Al-Hilal to provide much-needed cover in the full back role .
Hansi Flick’s hand has been forced by a growing injury crisis. With Andreas Christensen out for the season and captain Ronald Araujo yet to be made available after a sensitive period of personal rest, the "Blaugrana" are short on seasoned options. While Gerard Martín has performed admirably and Eric García has been utilized in midfield, Flick is eager for more established reinforcements.
The name at the top of the list is Nathan Aké. The Barcelona boss is a known admirer of the Dutchman's "ball-playing" style and defensive flexibility. Aké himself is open to the switch, fearing that a lack of minutes at Manchester City could jeopardize his starting spot for the Netherlands at this summer's World Cup.
However, the move hangs in the balance; following a string of injuries to City’s own defensive core, Guardiola may no longer be willing to let Aké leave the Etihad.
Move hits difficulties
The most severe blow involves Josko Gvardiol, who suffered a tibial fracture. Diagnoses suggest a lengthy layoff, potentially sidelining the Croatian for the remainder of the season and putting his World Cup aspirations in doubt.
Compounding this, Ruben Dias is set for a significant spell on the sidelines, up to six weeks, due to a hamstring injury sustained in the same match. With John Stones already a long-term absentee and facing his own struggles to regain fitness, Guardiola’s options have dwindled to a critical level.
In his post-match reaction and subsequent press briefings, Guardiola has said that City “don’t have the players,” noting that the club was forced to recall academy prospect Max Alleyne from a loan spell at Watford to provide cover. While Aké has been linked with a January exit in search of more regular minutes, the injury situation makes his departure impossible.
Guardiola has historically valued Aké’s versatility and reliability; in a squad where only thirteen senior outfield players are currently fit, Aké transforms from a rotational luxury into an indispensable reinforcement.
With City trailing Arsenal in the title race and facing a demanding winter schedule, the priority has shifted from streamlining the squad to desperate retention. Even as the club intensifies its pursuit of new signings like Marc Guéhi, the immediate need for defensive stability means that Aké, one of the few experienced, fit defenders remaining, will be required to anchor the defense for the foreseeable future.