Nathan Ake has left Manchester City after six trophy-laden years, joining Turkish side Fenerbahce in a deal that could reach £8.5m. The Dutch defender, 31, cost City £40m from Bournemouth in 2020 and made 177 appearances, winning four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, two League Cups and the Champions League. Yet last season he started just 17 games across all competitions, only six in the league, as Pep Guardiola’s final campaign limited his minutes. With a year left on his contract, the move was not entirely unexpected.
“It’s been a privilege to represent Manchester City over the past six years and I’m so grateful to have been part of a special team,” Ake said. “I’ve grown so much here – as a player and a person. I’ll always cherish the memories, particularly of winning the Treble, being part of all four Premier League titles in a side that made history and triumphing in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup in my final season.”
“Nathan Ake leaves Manchester City for Fenerbahce in a £8.5m deal after six trophy-filled years.”
Ake made three appearances for the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup before Morocco eliminated them in the last 32. Fenerbahce have paid around £7m up front, with add-ons potentially increasing the fee. His departure marks City’s first major exit of a window that is already gathering pace elsewhere.
Tottenham Hotspur have set the early pace, spending £185m to sign midfielder Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United and Mateus Fernandes. Both players had been linked with Manchester United, who are now reportedly targeting Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha to strengthen their engine room. Arsenal, meanwhile, are monitoring Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers and Ezri Konsa as Villa face financial pressures, while Leandro Trossard appears to be leaving the Emirates.
Callum Wilson is set to join Brentford on a free transfer after leaving West Ham United, subject to a medical, providing competition for Igor Thiago. And Liverpool are closing in on a highly-rated defender, though his name has not been disclosed. Chelsea are finalising the permanent sale of Tyrique George to Everton after his loan spell.
The summer window is only just kicking into gear, but clubs are already reshaping their squads ahead of the new season.