Transfer News: Chelsea closing in on landing Manchester City star Nathan Ake
According to @BobbyVincentFL (h/t Football.London), Chelsea are in the advanced stages to sign talented Dutch defender Nathan Ake from Manchester City in the ongoing summer transfer window.
Chelsea’s interest in Ake has been prevalent for quite some time now with the Blues wanting the Dutchman to reinforce their backline. Ake’s career hasn’t really taken off during their time at Manchester City and a move away from the club might just be the solution.
Ake joined Man City from Bournemouth in 2020 in a move that was expected to turn out to be huge for the Dutchman. However, he has been resigned to a bit-part role in the last couple of seasons, filling in only when others are not available due to injuries or suspensions.
The talented Dutchman played 27 times for the Cityzens this season, scoring three goals and providing no assists across all competitions. Whilst he undoubtedly has the talent to be a success in the Premier League, Etihad does not seem to be the place.
A huge thing that works in favour of Ake is his comfort in playing in multiple positions. He would be able to play as a centre-back and a left-back with equal ease. The 27-year-old would perfectly be able to encapsulate the Antonio Rudiger role at Stamford Bridge.
A return to his former club
Chelsea are in a bit of a defensive pickle ahead of next season. Antonio Rudiger has left for Real Madrid and Andreas Christensen has joined Barcelona. Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso could also be on their way out ahead of next season.
It would mean that Chelsea could find themselves in a situation where they will have just Thiago Silva and Trevoh Chalobah as options in central defence. This is where signing a player of Nathan Ake’s ability seems to be a very wise choice.
Signing Ake means Thomas Tuchel will be signing a player for two positions. He could be a first-choice centre-back who can provide cover for Ben Chilwell at left-back as well. In such dire situations, innovative solutions are the need of the hour and Ake is just that.
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However, just Nathan Ake will not be sufficient for the Blues. They will have to make other defensive signings if they want to build a competitive squad for next season but Ake is a good start.