UEFA Champions League
AC Milan has activated its roadmap for the winter market and has pointed to Nathan Aké as one of the top priorities to reinforce the defensive line. The Italian club considers that the player's sporting and contractual situation presents a clear opportunity to secure an immediate impact signing, designed to compete from day one.
A clear premise guides AC Milan's planning: January is not a market for long-term bets. The sports management seeks reliable solutions, with experience and proven performance, capable of raising the competitive level without the need for prolonged adaptation.
AC Milan and the Need for an Immediate Signing
AC Milan understands that strengthening the defense is a strategic priority. The schedule demands consistency and solidity, and the coaching staff deems it essential to incorporate a profile that offers guarantees from the first game. In this context, Nathan Aké fits as a plug-and-play option, highly valued in these market windows, as reported by Corriere Dello Sport.
🚨 AC Milan have identified Manchester City defender Nathan Aké as a key January target.
They consider the Netherlands international as a plug-and-play option, who could be attainable due to his desire to play more first-team football ahead of the World Cup.
(Source: Corriere… pic.twitter.com/6IxOHJ208q
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) January 5, 2026
The Dutch international brings experience in high-pressure scenarios, silent leadership, and defensive reliability that AC Milan considers crucial to sustain their sporting goals in the second half of the season.
Nathan Aké's Situation at Manchester City
At Manchester City, Nathan Aké remains a respected player, but his prominence is not always constant due to the high internal competition. Rotation and the accumulation of talent have reduced his playing time, a circumstance that the player carefully analyzes.
The defender is aware that he needs quality minutes and competitive continuity in preparation for the upcoming World Cup. This personal need makes AC Milan an attractive and realistic destination for a January signing.

A Profile Suited for Various Systems
From a tactical perspective, AC Milan values the versatility of Nathan Aké. He can operate as a left-sided center-back or as a full-back, adapting to different schemes without losing reliability, a fundamental aspect for a team that alternates systems depending on the opponent.
His ability to build up play from the back, maintain defensive organization, and excel in individual duels reinforce the idea that he is a player ready to assume immediate responsibilities.
Aké's Fit in AC Milan's Project
AC Milan does not view this move as a temporary solution, but as an addition to elevate the overall squad quality. The potential signing of Nathan Aké would provide balance, European experience, and a clear improvement in defensive reading.
Additionally, his left-footed profile adds a tactical nuance that AC Milan considers distinctive compared to other market options, especially in ball distribution and defensive coverage.
A Pivotal January Market for AC Milan
AC Milan is aware that the winter market can shape the season's course. Therefore, they proceed cautiously yet decisively to assess the real feasibility of signing Nathan Aké from Manchester City.
If the sporting and contractual conditions allow it, the Italian club is confident in completing an operation that strengthens their defense and consolidates their competitive ambitions. AC Milan believes this move could be one of the most significant in the January market.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El AC Milan se lanza a por un fichaje estrella del Manchester City
