Premier League Club Throws Lifeline to Man City's Nathan Ake in Shock Transfer Bid

Everton has surfaced as a possible landing spot for multi-position Manchester City defender Nathan Aké, who faces the prospect of limited playing time if he remains at the Etihad Stadium.

Aké contributed significantly during City's Premier League championship campaigns in 2022–23 and 2023–24, but injuries and heightened squad competition reduced his game time last season.

The Netherlands international remained on the bench throughout City's season-opening match against Wolverhampton Wanderers over the weekend, and his chances of securing consistent playing time in either center-back or left-back roles look uncertain.

City have acquired Rayan Aït-Nouri as their primary left-sided option, while Joško Gvardiol is expected to become the main left-sided center-back once he recovers from his current fitness concerns. Despite Manuel Akanji's potential departure to Galatasaray, Pep Guardiola retains Rúben Dias, John Stones and Abdukodir Khusanov for central defensive duties, with Nico O'Reilly providing additional left-back coverage.

Guardiola has also expressed his preference for operating with a more compact squad.

For Aké, a transfer would be logical. The 30-year-old has demonstrated his quality throughout ten years in the Premier League, and the Daily Mail reports that Everton are keen to strengthen their defensive depth.

The Merseyside club will be without Jarrad Branthwaite until after the September international window, while regular left-back Vitaliy Mykolenko also missed Monday evening's loss to Leeds United—Everton manager David Moyes had to deploy midfielder James Garner in that position.

"[It's] excessive—too many players," Guardiola recently emphasized regarding City's squad size.

"I prefer a substantial squad to compete across all tournaments, but I don't want to leave players behind. It's unhealthy. You cannot build positive energy or team spirit for competition. Everyone must believe they can contribute and play. The club has understood this since last season, it's not surprising, but the circumstances are what they are.

"Over the coming fortnight, discussions will take place with players and representatives to find a resolution."