Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake in action. (Getty Images)
Pep Guardiola is interested in strengthening the backline and the club is in talks with Bournemouth to sign Nathan Ake according to The Athletic (h/t Daily Mail)
Nathan Ake is in high demand after yet another great season with Bournemouth and hence it is not surprising to see him get linked with a move away.
The 25-year-old came through the youth ranks of Feyenoord and joined Chelsea in 2011, as a part of their youth side. He then was promoted to the main team, but hardly found opportunities and match time. He spent a lot of time away on loan.
Ake, during his time on loan at Watford, played at left-back and underwent a transformation. The player then spent another short stint with Bournemouth on loan, impressing there before returning to the Blues. In the following season, the Cherries signed him and since then, the player has been vital at the Vitality Stadium.
The Dutchman has gone on to make a mark for himself and is regarded as one of the most promising defenders in the division.
The decision to not replace Vincent Kompany was questioned among circles and that turned out to be a concern later on, with injury crisis taking a toll on the team. Pep Guardiola has had to use midfielder Fernandinho at centre-back.
Ake would be ideal for Guardiola hence and can prove to be a long-term solution given the player’s ability to play both in the centre as well as on the left. He can also play in the defensive midfield. The player is also good in the air, which can be beneficial at both ends of the pitch. His aerial prowess has been obvious over the years.
The Netherlands international has shown in the league his qualities and has shown that he can be a reliable defender.
Ake has solid Premier League experience, having made more than 100 appearances for Bournemouth. Hence, Manchester City are right in making an approach for the Dutch star.
Manchester City should make a move for Nathan Ake in the summer as the player is just 25. He has a lot more left to offer at the highest level.
