⚽ **TRANSFERS: English Premier League 2017/18** ⚽

Young Versatile Defender

Player: Nathan Ake 

Age: 22 years

Positon: Left Back/ Centre Back/ Left Wingback

To: AFC Bournemouth 

From: Chelsea FC 

Estimated Fee: £  20 Million (€  22.7 Million)

Report: 

Bournemouth mean business this transfer window! 

They have already made their third valuable addition to their squad. Their latest acquisition is Nathan Ake from Premier League Champions Chelsea for a record £20 Million. Ake is a young defender who spent the first half of last season on loan with Bournemouth and has a lot of potential to succeed in the Premier League. 

It’s devastating for Chelsea to lose him due to limited first team opportunities. But Chelsea have smartly inserted a buy-back clause in his contract and will be tracking his progress as the season goes by.

Ake’s career statistics: 

• 2 loan spells in the Premier League with Watford and Bournemouth ✅
• A brilliant first loan spell with Watford making 24 appearances and one goal ✅
• Just had one and half a season with Bournemouth ✅
• Chelsea recalled him back mid season ✅
• He made 12 appearances for Bournemouth in the Premier League ✅
• Surprised everyone with 3 goals and one assist ✅

Ake’s attributes: 

His age is going to be a key factor to help him progress with Bournemouth. His most likely role may initially begin at LCB, but he prefers operating as a wingback should Bournemouth ever shift to a back 5. He will play a handy role in scoring goals from set plays. Ake is a versatile player who can play in all the three defensive positions for a left footer. This quality will be important for Bournemouth who had a number of defensive problems last season.

Ake’s concern: 

The only concern that is questionable about Ake is his defensive qualities. Though he plays at LCB, he is doubtful when it comes to defending long balls and can be beaten easily in the air. Hence keeping clean sheets would be a problem. He did manage to keep 4 clean sheets last season, but would still prefer slotting in at left back rather than a central defensive position.

It’s a good acquisition for Bournemouth. Ake is familiar with the playing style of the club and will prove an important addition this whole season.

All the best to him and his future with the club!!!