Why Man City completing a £40m deal for this rising PL star could be a shrewd move by Pep

Why Manchester City should go for Bournemouth star Nathan Ake

Manchester City are back to where they like to be, right at the top of the table, after romping to a 5-0 victory against Burnley this weekend. Pep Guardiola’s men ran riot as the Cityzens displayed their vast quality and depth.

Pep Guardiola has done considerably well to strengthen the squad over the last two years, bringing in Riyad Mahrez this summer. But according to the Sun, Manchester City are now interested in signing Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake. The Champions are ready to splash £40million on the Dutch centre-back who has been making a name for himself in the Premier League.

A number of teams are also said to be in the race, with the likes of Manchester United and Tottenham also lurking around. Nevertheless, Manchester City would definitely be the ideal option for the versatile defender.

Since joining Bournemouth on a permanent basis last season, Ake has gone on to establish himself as a key member of Eddie Howe’s squad. He is a tough-tackling and agile defender who rarely puts a foot wrong at the back.

The youngster is capable of playing as a full-back and is also comfortable in a deep-lying midfielder’s role. He would definitely add to Manchester City’s depth and quality. The likes of Vincent Kompany and Nicolas Otamendi have failed to produce consistent performances this season. The captain has also suffered a number of persistent injuries during his time at the Etihad.

In Ake, Guardiola will get a hard-working and determined defender who rarely goes out injured. He has been in supreme form for the Cherries this season, averaging an 80% tackle success rate in the league this season. (Stats courtesy – Premier League)

The 23-year-old has also been very accurate with his passing, averaging a pass success rate of 88.2% in the league. Guardiola loves defenders who are composed on the ball and can play out from the back. This is why Ake would be a perfect fit for this Manchester City side.

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The Cityzens are also a club on the rise and signing Ake would serve as a long-term investment as well. Pep Guardiola should definitely beat the other competitors to bring in the young defender.

Ake is currently at the right stage of his career to make the move and under the City manager, he would receive the right kind of development.