Fenerbahce's £8.5m gamble on veteran Nathan Ake amid shifting market

Fenerbahce have completed the signing of Netherlands defender Nathan Ake from Manchester City for a fee that could rise to £8.5 million, with £7 million paid upfront. The 31‑year‑old joins the Turkish giants after six years in the Premier League's Etihad Stadium.

Ake made six Premier League starts for Manchester City last season. Overall, he recorded 17 starts across all competitions.

He earned three caps for the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup before their exit in the last‑32 to Morocco. The Netherlands were eliminated by Morocco in the last‑32.

During his six‑year spell at Manchester City, Ake collected four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, two League Cups and the Champions League. He featured in 177 matches for the club.

Nathan Ake said, "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." He added that he will always cherish the memories of winning the Treble and the domestic trophies.

Ake arrived at Manchester City from Bournemouth in 2020 for a £40 million fee and amassed 177 appearances. He entered the summer with one year remaining on his contract, and limited game time in Pep Guardiola's final season.

Fenerbahce have paid around £7 million upfront, with the total rising to £8.5 million if add‑ons are triggered, underscoring the Turkish club's willingness to invest in experienced defenders amid a competitive European market. The deal reflects broader trends of clubs seeking seasoned talent as transfer fees stabilize across Europe.