Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is a big fan of summer target Nathan Ake. But there is one big issue when it comes to signing the Dutchman. The club are currently put off by Ake’s price, which is £50 million, according to The Telegraph.
Both the Dutch international and Howe worked together at Bournemouth and he was one of their standout players. So it’s no wonder that Howe rates Ake so highly. He was the one who signed him from Chelsea for a fee of £20 million (Sky Sports), when he was in charge of the Cherries.
His current club Manchester City are willing to let Ake leave this summer. But considering they signed him for £41 million (Sky Sports), they’d want to make a profit on him.
Ake would be a great addition to Newcastle’s squad, Howe could get the best out of him
The City defender is one of Newcastle’s defensive targets this summer. Fabian Schar and Dan Burn have been excellent this season, but the Toon need more options and strength in depth.
Howe rates Ake and he would definitely fit the bill. He’s Premier League proven, a Dutch international and his previous time with the Magpies boss is a bonus.
However, it’s been reported about a week ago that Newcastle are confident they can land Sven Botman. In fact, Ake’s Netherlands teammate could cost less than him.
The Magpies have been offered Oleksandr Zinchenko, another teammate of the 27-year-old. He would definitely be a great addition at left-back for Newcastle.
So there are a number of Newcastle defensive targets being looked at this summer. Ake’s price is too high, but if Newcastle can negotiate a lower fee it could be a good signing.
But with the likes of Botman and Zinechenko also being looked at by the Toon, Newcastle may have other options. Botman looks to be the real deal, while the Ukraine international has proven himself in the Premier League.
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