According to exclusive information courtesy of the Manchester Evening News, Man City have made ‘contact‘ with Bournemouth over the signing of sought-after defender Nathan Ake – with director of football Txiki Begiristain seemingly making the ‘first move‘ in trying to entice the 25-year-old with an Eastlands switch.
Ake, who has been a shining light during Bournemouth’s otherwise relegation-threatened campaign, starting 29 Premier League matches in the process, is currently linked with City among a plethora of other defenders.
Who is our best centre-back option?
Upamecano
Ake
Koulibaly
Alaba
According to the Daily Mail, Kalidou Koulibaly and David Alaba are also on Pep Guardiola’a radar as we seek to plug gaping holes at the back – with Cherries star Ake now being listed as a potential alternative to these names, or even an extra back up.
The inconsistent form of both John Stones and Nicolas Otamendi, along with Aymeric Laporte’s fitness issues and the departure of club legend Vincent Kompany at the end of 2018/2019, have arguably been the main cause for our defensive lapses this season – with usual midfield enforcer Fernandinho having to step in at centre-half.
Now, MEN Sport understand that Ake is a realistic target for the Sky Blues while the player is ‘keeping his options open’ – and manager Eddie Howe has waxed lyrical over his ‘outstanding‘ contribution in the past.
According to WhoScored, the Englishman has even averaged more clearances per 90 than star rival defender Virgil van Dijk – potentially drawing attention to his prowess leading the Bournemouth back four.
Coupled with his 87.6% pass accuracy, Ake appears to possess attributes that may entice Guardiola – but it remains to be seen whether City do in fact secure his signature.