Report: Chelsea step up their bid to sign ‘fantastic’ player, they’re now fully focused on signing him

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Chelsea are reportedly set to step up their pursuit of a reunion with Manchester City’s Nathan Ake.

According to the Mail Online, the club are fearful that a deal for compatriot Matthijs de Ligt is about to be hijacked, with Bayern Munich now firmly interested.

This has led to the club looking to turn their focus to the City man, who left the Blues permanently in 2017.

The rapid switch in focus comes as Blues fans are beginning to get nervous at the lack of signings for the backline, following Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen’s departures to Spain.

Ake has developed massively since exiting Stamford Bridge five years ago, with him winning three Premier League titles under Pep Guardiola.

Chelsea step up Ake pursuit

The Netherlands man has gained praise from his international captain Virgil van Dijk, who labelled him as ‘fantastic’.

His time at the Etihad has allowed his versatility to show, with him often deputising at left-back when needed. With Chelsea’s largest void currently on the left-hand-side of a back three, Ake would be a perfect addition to a position in desperate need.

It is now being suggested that the Blues could be about to accelerate a deal for the 27-year-old, with the Mail Online suggesting he fits Thomas Tuchel’s need for a high-profile centre back.

It is likely the Blues will need another addition at the back even if they don’t sign De Ligt, with Jules Kounde another name who has been mentioned frequently as a target for the club.

With the Frenchman’s ability to play in multiple positions on the opposite side to Ake, the club’s ambition is clear in terms of defensive targets. With rumours that the manager may look to incorporate a four-at-the-back formation more frequently next year, the need for versatility is key, with the pair fitting the agenda perfectly.