Ruben Dias (Getty Images)
Bournemouth has exceeded all expectations with a wonderful start to their Premier League campaign this season. Eddie Howe’s men currently sit 6th in the Premier League standings with 20 points from 12 games, just above Watford and Manchester United on goal difference.
After losing 2-1 to Manchester United in what was an edge of the seat thriller, Bournemouth will be kicking themselves for suffering a shock 2-1 defeat at the hands of Newcastle United before the international break.
The Cherries have shown strong signs of promise and have almost everything in their squad to propel them to a Europa League spot next season but they will face stiff competition from the likes of Everton, Watford, Leicester City and Manchester United.
Bournemouth’s front trio of Callum Wilson, Joshua King and Ryan Fraser has taken the team to new heights in the Premier League this season but they need more depth in their squad to rack up wins on a more consistent basis towards the end of the season.
Here are two players that Bournemouth should look to sign in January to enhance their chances of securing a European spot next season.
Asmir Begovic has been in terrific form for the Cherries between the sticks this season but that should not stop Eddie Howe from making a move to snap up Burnley’s out-of-favour English international Tom Heaton.
The 32-year-old was sidelined for large quarters of the previous season with an injury and he has been relegated to bench duty this term to accommodate Joe Hart. With the kind of form Hart has shown so far, Heaton is going to find regular minutes hard to come by, particularly after Nick Pope recovers from his shoulder injury.
Heaton is a hugely experienced goalkeeper who is renowned for his shot-stopping abilities from close range and he will be the ideal option to provide cover and competition for Begovic. Artur Boruc, 38, is well past his prime and the Cherries might face a potential burn out of options between the sticks should Begovic be sidelined with an injury.
Nathan Ake has been instrumental in Bournemouth’s stellar start to the season, catching the eye of the Premier League giants with his consistently solid performances at the back. However, Bournemouth might find it difficult to keep the Dutchman at the club amidst interest from bigger clubs.
Steve Cook has put in multiple solid shifts in the heart of Bournemouth’s defence alongside Ake but the Cherries need to invest in another centre-back. Jack Simpson is an exciting prospect but he is still in the developmental stage of his career.
Irrespective of what the future holds for Ake, Benfica’s Ruben Dias might be the ideal man to add depth to Bournemouth’s options at the back.
The 21-year-old has been a regular for Benfica this season and has earned rave reviews for his solid displays at the back. He has also started thrice for Portugal in the UEFA Nations League in recent weeks.
A technically-gifted ball-playing centre-back, Ruben Dias is also good in the air and should be a perfect fit for the Premier League.