Newcastle United have been backed to sign Manchester City ace Nathan Ake, with Noel Whelan believing that he would be a perfect addition for the Magpies.
Speaking to Football Insider, former Leeds United star Noel Whelan has claimed that Newcastle United would be making an amazing signing by moving in for Manchester City’s Dutch defensive ace Nathan Ake.
The 26-year-old has been with the reigning Premier League champions since last year when he signed from Bournemouth after the Cherries were relegated from the Premier League. However, Ake has had to deal with a severe lack of game-time at the Etihad Stadium with Ruben Dias, Aymeric Laporte and John Stones ahead of him in the pecking order.
Indeed, in over a year, the Netherlands international has made just 20 appearances for Manchester City, with only three of them coming in the Premier League this season. Given his situation, an exit in the upcoming January transfer window has been mooted, with Newcastle United credited with an interest in his services.
The Magpies are one of the worst defensive sides in the Premier League this season and need to address that if they are to survive the drop. Eddie Howe has been named the new manager at St. James’ Park, and Whelan believes that reuniting him with Ake could be a great prospect for Newcastle as the Englishman helped the defender develop a great deal during their time at Bournemouth.
“I think that signing ticks all the boxes for Newcastle. Eddie Howe had him at Bournemouth, and was excellent for him there, that makes it a no-brainer. He progressed so well under him. He’s in his prime at 26, that is when you get the best football out of yourself,” Whelan said.
“They need to bolster that defence, it’s been so leaky for almost three seasons now. They need to get him through the door at Newcastle as soon as possible if he is made available by Man City in January. He would be an amazing signing and the start of those jigsaw pieces coming together.”
As Whelan puts it, Ake is entering the peak years of his career and has proven himself in the Premier League for several years now. So, a move for the 26-year-old could work out well for Newcastle come the January transfer window as they look to bolster their squad in a bid to avoid relegation.
