Chelsea suffer Nathan Ake transfer blow?

Chelsea have suffered a potential blow in their pursuit of Manchester City defender Nathan Ake this summer, according to Goal.

The Blues are expected to bolster their central defence following the recent departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen.

They are exploring a big-money move for Juventus' Matthijs de Ligt, but also have their sights on re-signing their former graduate in Ake.

The Netherlands star could be available for around £50 million, but City are adamant that he won't be sold unless a replacement is signed.

The English champions want a top-class successor for the Dutchman, but may struggle to find one with the World Cup around the corner.

A number of high-profile players are wary of switching clubs without the assurance of playing time. This may urge City to keep hold of Ake.

This would be a potential blow for Chelsea, who believe Ake can be effective for them on the left side of the three-man central defence.