nathan ake
According to Caught Offside, Tottenham Hotspur are considering reopening talks to sign Manchester City star Nathan Ake to add more quality and depth in the defensive department.
The Netherlands international has fallen out of favour under manager Pep Guardiola, and has managed only 67 minutes in three games this campaign. With Josko Gvardiol’s return from injury and the summer arrival of Rayan Ait-Nouri, Ake is no longer an assured starter in central defence or at left-back.
This could pave the way for his potential exit. Caught Offside claim that Spurs are eyeing cover for Micky van de Ven and Destiny Udogie, who have been injury prone.
Ake has been identified as a possible solution. The London giants were linked with him this summer and could return with a winter proposal.
With Man City’s plans to trim their squad, Ake could be allowed to leave if they receive at least £15m, as per the report.
Premier League proven
Tottenham had a difficult 2024/25 campaign as they spent several months of the campaign without Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven due to injuries. The experienced duo returned in time for the Europa League final where Spurs clinched the title with a solitary goal against Manchester United at San Mames. Spurs were still disappointing in the Premier League as they finished 17th.
Spurs have made a better start with the change of manager. Under Frank, the club have picked up 6 points from 3 games, but they will be wary of potential injuries as the season progresses.
The London giants need a solid back-up for Van de Ven due to his injury record. Spurs don’t have the same urgency at left-back with Djed Spence proving a good competitor alongside Udogie.
Ake would be a brilliant signing for Frank’s side and would require no time to adapt, having been a Premier League player for most of his career.
At the price quoted, he would be a bargain signing despite turning 30, but the big question mark is whether he would accept a deputy role behind Van de Ven to start with. He is already facing a similar situation at the Cityzens.
In that case, Ake, described as ‘exceptional‘ by Guardiola, could choose to join another Premier League outfit where he has guaranteed playing time.