Arsenal to beat Chelsea to the signing of Dutch centre-back?

Arsenal are reportedly looking at the possibility of beating Chelsea to the signing of defender Nathan Ake from Bournemouth this month.

The north London side are aiming to sign a new centre-back in the transfer window following Calum Chambers' surgery for a serious knee injury.

According to The Telegraph, the Gunners are considering a possible move for Ake, who is due to return from a hamstring concern before the end of January.

Chelsea presently have the advantage in the Dutchman's pursuit due to a £40m buyback clause placed during his sale in 2017 but they are yet to show any interest in re-signing their graduate.

In this case, the Gunners seem to be looking at the prospect of landing the versatile defender and reports claim that the Cherries could accept a fee of around £45m, particularly with the lesser buyback price for the Blues.

Bournemouth are currently going through a rough patch which has dropped them into the drop zone but they are still likely to cash in on their prized asset at the right price.