Newcastle United could pull off ‘excellent signing’ after Nathan Ake update – pundit
Noel Whelan has insisted Manchester City star Nathan Ake would be an “excellent signing” for Newcastle United this summer.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 27-year-old would bring some leadership and authority to the Magpies’ backline.
As reported by talkSPORT (2 June), Newcastle are plotting a move for Ake after he was told he can leave City during the transfer window.
Eddie Howe is reportedly a big fan of the defender and made an approach for his capture in January.
The Newcastle boss also signed Ake for Bournemouth back in 2016.
Whelan insisted the duo’s pre-existing relationship, plus the centre-back’s footballing talent, would make him top-class addition at St James’ Park.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “Eddie Howe’s dipping in again. He’s not just getting a very good player, in my opinion, who ticks all boxes as a centre-half.
“But he’s worked with him before, he’s got that trust level and relationship already. I think he’d be an excellent signing. He’s that leader, that somebody that has a bit of presence. Ake commands that.
“He’s been brought up at Manchester City over a long period of time now. He has that experience of playing in the side and in European football.
“I think it’d be hard to look past a Nathan Ake and think he wouldn’t improve your team.”
Ake played 121 times under Howe at Bournemouth.
He has made 40 appearances for City since joining back in 2020.
The Netherland international started 18 times in 27 games across all competitions during the 2021/22 campaign.
In other news, pundit claims Newcastle United don’t need to “break the bank” to sign “proven Premier League” striker.