Recent transfer buzz suggests Manchester City defender Nathan Aké could be on the move. But hold on, the idea of a “Premier League duo” chasing Aké because of some “Antoine Semenyo dilemma” for City? That’s not really accurate.
There’s just no verified info linking Aké’s situation directly to Semenyo or any specific Premier League duo making a combined move, according to ESPN’s Transfer Talk. These two players are getting attention, for sure, but their transfer stories are pretty much separate. Let’s dig into what’s actually being reported.
Nathan Aké Eyeing January Exit from City
It seems Nathan Aké might be looking for a change. Apparently, he’s pretty open to leaving Manchester City this January. He wants to play more, you know, get consistent game time. The Netherlands international hasn’t seen much action this season, just one Premier League start. He’s been on the bench a lot, too, like for three of City’s last four games. That’s not ideal for a player hoping to make his national squad for the 2026 World Cup.
City isn’t actively trying to sell him, sources say. But they would think about it if a good offer came in. They reportedly value Aké between €30-35 million, which is about £26.4-30.8 million, as Sports Mole reported. He’s got a contract until 2027.
So, who’s interested in Aké? Well, Barcelona has been mentioned. They apparently want him on loan in January to help with their defense. But a deal doesn’t seem likely right now. Also, some Premier League clubs have looked at him. Newcastle United, West Ham United, and Everton were considering a move, according to a report from Caught Offside via Yahoo Sports. Crystal Palace even identified Aké as a possible replacement if Marc Guehi leaves. And beyond England, Italian giants Juventus and Inter Milan are also keen. They like that he can play both center-back and left-back.
Semenyo’s High Price Tag Draws Big Clubs
Now, let’s talk about Antoine Semenyo. He’s AFC Bournemouth’s winger. Tottenham Hotspur sees him as a priority target. And he’s got a hefty £65 million price tag. But Spurs aren’t the only ones. Manchester City, Liverpool, and Manchester United are also in the mix. Chelsea recently made an inquiry too, according to some reports.
It’s clear a lot of big clubs want Semenyo. He’s been performing well for Bournemouth. His manager, Andoni Iraola, wants him to stay. He knows there’s a lot of noise around Antoine. But Iraola hopes the speculation doesn’t affect Semenyo’s play. He said Antoine is very committed to the team. Semenyo himself doesn’t seem too bothered by the rumors, saying he just tries to stay present. But again, there’s no direct connection here to Aké. The transfer market is just crazy like that.
City’s Squad Trimming Efforts Continue
Pep Guardiola, City’s manager, has been looking to trim his squad. He wants a smaller group to work with. This helps maintain harmony, you know? So players don’t get left out of the matchday squad all the time. Manuel Akanji is another defender who could leave City. He’s also attracting interest. Crystal Palace reportedly approached City about Akanji.
Between Aké and Akanji, Akanji might be more likely to leave. Nathan Aké is a homegrown player for City. That makes him pretty valuable for squad registration rules. City doesn’t have a huge number of homegrown players, so they might not want to sell Aké. Especially late in a transfer window. Akanji isn’t homegrown, so that could make him the favorite to depart.
So, while both Nathan Aké and Antoine Semenyo are hot topics in transfer talks, their situations are pretty much separate. The idea of them being linked in some big “dilemma” for City just isn’t what the reports are saying.
Govind Singh 
Ishaan Singh