Manchester City want to sign ex-Chelsea defender

Manchester City have reportedly opened talks with Bournemouth regarding the possibility of signing Nathan Ake in the next transfer window.

The Cityzens failed to replace Vincent Kompany following his departure last summer but they are expected to find a replacement ahead of next term.

According to The Athletic, manager Pep Guardiola is unconvinced with the displays of Nicolas Otamendi or John Stones and he wants a new partner for Aymeric Laporte, who is back to being a regular after a long-term injury.

Fernandinho has done a credible job as the makeshift centre-back, but he has been culpable of making the occasional mistakes which have cost the club during the current season.

Ake has been identified as the prime target to address the concern, but the Cityzens could miss out on the player, suppose Chelsea make an attempt to re-sign him.

The Blues sanctioned the Dutchman's sale to Bournemouth a few years ago by including a £40m buy-back clause and the option remains active until the 2020 summer transfer window.