Chelsea 'have first refusal on Nathan Ake'

Chelsea reportedly have first refusal on Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake, who is said to be attracting interest from Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur following a strong start to the season.

Ake, 23, spent the first half of the 2016-17 campaign on loan at Bournemouth, before joining the Cherries on a permanent deal in the summer of 2017.

Eddie Howe's team paid £20m to secure the centre-back's signature, and he has impressed at the Vitality Stadium.

United and Tottenham have both recently been linked with moves for the Netherlands international, but according to The Telegraph, Chelsea have a 'gentleman's agreement' with Bournemouth meaning that they could re-sign Ake for £40m if they wish.

Ake made 17 Chelsea appearances during his time at Stamford Bridge.