Newcastle United could reportedly face competition from Chelsea to sign Nathan Ake this summer.
That’s according to the Telegraph, who claim the Blues may move for the Dutchman as a replacement for Antonio Rudiger.
The German defender has joined Real Madrid on a free transfer, meaning Thomas Tuchel needs to find a new defender.
Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Raheem Sterling from City, and discussions with the champions could prompt talk over a deal for Ake as well.
The Telegraph add that Tuchel has a long-term interest in Ake, which is something he has in common with Toon boss Eddie Howe.
Newcastle quoted £50m for Nathan Ake
Newcastle are in the market for a new left-sided centre-back this summer, with Sven Botman the club’s number one target.
But the Magpies have also been linked with Ake, who Howe knows well. He signed him for Bournemouth twice, and now wants to bring him to St James’ Park.
However, it’s going to take a serious amount of money to do just that. The Sun reported last month that Man City want £50million for the 27-year-old.
That fee has hardly delighted the Newcastle decision makers, who would have to break the club’s transfer record to bring him in.
Toon could struggle to compete with Chelsea
Talk of Chelsea possibly making a move for Ake makes things even more complicated for Newcastle.
While Howe is desperate for a new centre-back, Chelsea’s need is arguably greater. They’ve lost Rudiger and Andreas Christensen this summer.
In contrast, Newcastle are only looking to make their squad stronger. It won’t be the end of the world if another centre-back doesn’t arrive, as Dan Burn and Fabian Schar were excellent last season.
If the Magpies do decide to make a move for Ake, we may struggle to compete with Chelsea. Their new owners are keen to make a splash and back their manager, meaning they could be more than happy to meet City’s Ake demands.
Newcastle, however, must be savvy in the transfer market. Financial fair play limitations mean we must be careful with how we spend, otherwise it could massively hinder us in the future.
Hopefully Newcastle can get the Botman deal over the line and we can leave Chelsea to have a clean run at Ake.
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