Chelsea's Ake set for £20m move back to Bournemouth

Chelsea defender Nathan Ake is set for a £20 million reunion with Bournemouth, with the Cherries having beaten a host of clubs to his signature

Goal understands Southampton, Newcastle United and West Ham were all keen on the former Watford centre-back but have missed out to their Premier League rivals.

The 22-year-old will sign a long-term contract at the club tomorrow ahead of an official unveiling by Bournemouth, who attempted to keep him on a permanent basis in the January transfer window. 

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Howe played a huge part in securing Ake amid competition and the Netherlands international made it clear to Chelsea that he wanted to leave over a lack of first team opportunities. 

Ake made only five appearances for Chelsea which included only one Premier League start after Antonio Conte brought him back to Stamford Bridge due to a break clause in his loan contract as he struggled to strengthen his squad in the January transfer window. 

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Ake's highlights upon his return included securing a Premier League winner's medal and a start in the 4-2 FA Cup semi-final win at Wembley against Tottenham.

After Asmir Begovic, Ake will become the second Chelsea player to move to Bournemouth for a combined total of £32 million.

Chelsea will look to sign a replacement at centre-back with Leonardo Bonucci and Virgil van Dijk outlined as top targets. Goal also confirmed in early June that Chelsea are set to bring back Andreas Christensen into the first team for pre-season after his successful two-year loan spell at Borussia Monchengladbach.