Why Chelsea re-signing Nathan Ake would bolster their defence

According to the Guardian, Chelsea are interested in re-signing Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake in the summer for a cut-price if the Cherries get relegated.

Ake, 25, came through the ranks of Feyenoord’s youth system and joined Chelsea’s U18 in 2011. Though he made it to the Blues’ senior team, he found game time hard to come and was sent on several loan spells to Reading, Watford and Bournemouth initially.

The Cherries signed him in the summer of 2017 and since then, he has gone on to become an integral member under Eddie Howe. He has also been capped 11 times by the Netherlands and is one of the most promising defenders in the league. Thus, Chelsea should consider luring Ake to London in the summer and improve their defensive options.

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has done a stellar job so far in his first season in charge at Stamford Bridge. Despite having to do with a lot of injuries to key players, the manager has done well to set up a decent team with youngsters. Though they have been inconsistent on several occasions, the Blues have contained themselves within the top four of the league table.

However, with the new season coming soon, the manager should look to bring in reinforcements to several key areas. He must make sure that there is depth in every area if they are to progress further. Apart from attacking reinforcements, the defence also needs to be improved.

Ake could bring stability to Chelsea’s defence

Though the Blues have scored 50 goals in the league, they have also conceded 39 goals in just 29 games so far, which is the most among the top 7 teams in the standings. Their defence has been shaky especially in the absence of German international Antonio Rudiger.

Andreas Christensen, Fikayo Tomori and Kurt Zouma had all got their fair share of games but none of them has put in remarkable performances. And apart from them, Chelsea don’t have any other centre-back. Thus, a central defender is a must in the summer.

In that regard, re-signing Ake would do them a world of good. Despite Bournemouth failure, the former Feyenoord man has been in good form individually. He has made over 100 appearances for the South Coast club and he would definitely add depth to Chelsea’s backline, whilst also bringing in a healthy competition to the team.

He has featured in 23 league games so far and has been consistent for the past couple of years. The Dutchman has also managed to score twice this season while providing one assist. Given his good run of form, he could form a strong partnership with Rudiger at the back for the Blues.

Read more

• Why signing Kaio Jorge is a step in the right direction by Chelsea
• Why Chelsea must press ahead with their pursuit of Federico Bernardeschi

Verdict

Chelsea have lacked numbers at the back and it is clear that they need depth in their defence. And Ake could provide them with that. He is just 25 and has a lot more to offer at a high level. Thus, the Blues should make a move for the Dutchman in the summer.