Manchester City have reportedly opened discussions regarding a new contract with Nathan Ake.
During his opening two seasons at the Etihad Stadium, the former Bournemouth star was restricted to just 40 appearances in all competitions, partly owing to injuries.
With the perception that he was only regarded as a squad member by Pep Guardiola, Chelsea made a sustained attempt to sign the Netherlands international during the summer as they targeted a replacement for Antonio Rudiger.
At one stage, it appeared that Ake would return to a club where he spent the early days of his career until he performed a U-turn to stay in the North West.
Since then, the 28-year-old has already played more games in 2022-23 than he did in either of his first two campaigns at the Premier League champions.
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A total of 21 starts and seven substitute outings have been made in all competitions, with 18 of those starts coming in the top flight and Champions League.
Although it can be highlighted that injuries to other central defenders and the departure of Joao Cancelo have aided Ake's desire for more game time, he has generally taking the opportunities presented to him.
According to Football Insider, that appears likely to lead to a new contract being signed in the foreseeable future.
Ake still has two years and four months remaining on his existing terms, leaving City under little pressure to hand him an extension.
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Nevertheless, it appears that City officials and Guardiola would like to ensure that the versatile player remains at the club in the long term, aware that interest could emerge for his signature.
Ake would allegedly earn a pay rise, a reward for his enhanced status in the squad, although it remains unclear when any fresh contract would expire.
City are reportedly also looking to extend the contract of Julian Alvarez, even though the World Cup winner is only playing in his first season with the club.
Meanwhile, City are yet to resolve the future of Ilkay Gundogan, whose terms are due to expire at the end of the campaign.
Darren Plant
