Manchester City 'join Chelsea in Nathan Ake race'

Manchester City have reportedly identified Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake as a potential January signing.

Despite frequent injury issues in the middle of his backline, Pep Guardiola has insisted that City will not attempt to sign a new centre-back at the midway point of the campaign.

However, Sky Sports News claims that the Premier League champions are considering whether to launch an approach for Ake, who may cost in excess of £40m.

Chelsea - Ake's former club - are currently viewed as the favourites to sign the versatile 24-year-old as they look to tighten up their own defence at the beginning of 2020.

Nevertheless, due to his age and being regarded as a homegrown player, City may deem the Netherlands international to be the perfect addition.

Ake is likely to be sidelined for a number of weeks after sustaining a hamstring injury at the weekend.