A reliable Manchester City defender could return to the Vitality Stadium, which would be a good move for him | OneFootball

Nathan Ake seemingly faces an uncertain future following the conclusion of the 2025-26 season. Aké was more of a squad player for Manchester City during the recently completed season. As ever, Ake was reliable and performed well when he was given the opportunity to start by Pep Guardiola. However, those opportunities were few and far between for Ake. Heading into the summer transfer window, Ake could leave City to play regularly. A new report indicates that Bournemouth has an interest in bringing Ake back to the club. That could be a good move for the Dutch international as Bournemouth could use Ake’s experience.

Bournemouth have an interest in bringing Nathan Ake back to the Vitality Stadium.

Graeme Bailey has reported for TeamTalk that Bournemouth is open to signing Nathan Ake this summer. Furthermore, Bailey reports that Manchester City is willing to let Ake leave the club this summer. Bailey also reports that Bournemouth is in the market for a left-sided centre-back, given that Marcos Senesi is bound for Tottenham. Ake would fill this need for the Cherries.

It is also reported that Nathan Ake is currently assessing his options ahead of the summer transfer window. Ake reportedly has options from the Premier League and Europe to consider. Graeme Bailey adds that Manchester City would demand £20 million to sell Ake, who has 12 months remaining on his contract.

If Ake was to leave Manchester City this summer, Bournemouth could be a good destination for him.

Given that Manchester City are set to embark on a new era, there is merit to the idea of them keeping Nathan Ake. Ake’s experience and leadership could be vital for the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders next season, especially considering that John Stones and Bernardo Silva have left the club. There is a void in terms of experience in Manchester City’s squad with their departure. Ake has seen it all at City and could help guide his younger teammates along the way next season. However, Ake’s opportunities to play regularly may be limited next season due to the number of centre-backs that City has.

If Ake is to leave City, a club like Bournemouth could be ideal for the Dutch international. Ake served Bournemouth with distinction before earning a move to Manchester City. A return to the Vitality Stadium would be special for Ake. Also, Bournemouth are set to play in Europe next season, and Ake’s experience and talent could be important to the Cherries.

A move back to the Vitality Stadium does seem to be a realistic option for Nathan Ake. Bournemouth’s interest in the Dutch defender seems like a smart move for them. Ake’s future is one of many topics to monitor from a Manchester City point of view, but it seems that he is likely to leave City this summer.