Chelsea duo linked with tempting Bournemouth switch

Bournemouth are reportedly interested in signing two Chelsea players this summer. Asmir Begovic and Nathan Ake are Eddie Howe transfer targets.

While most of the current speculation regards players coming into Stamford Bridge, there are still some linked with an exit. Asmir Begovic and Nathan Ake may see their Chelsea careers come to an end this summer, as Bournemouth consider a move for the duo.

According to The Times (subscription required), Eddie Howe is keen on reuniting with Ake and bringing in the talented Bosnian goalkeeper.

"Bournemouth are ready to begin their summer recruitment drive by targeting Nathan Aké and Asmir Begovic, the Chelsea pair, in a deal worth more than £30 million.Eddie Howe will look to resurrect a long-standing interest in Aké, the defender, and Begovic, the goalkeeper, whom he wanted to sign in January."

Ake spent the first half of the 2016/17 season at Dean Court, forming a vital part of a solid Cherries defence. His impressive performances caused Antonio Conte to recall him in January to provide first-team cover.

After a run of 8 consecutive Premier League starts, Ake returned to Stamford Bridge and has featured only twice in the league since. At the age of 22, the Dutchman is desperate for regular football as he looks to fulfill his significant potential.

A Bournemouth switch is incredibly tempting. Howe has the Cherries playing fantastic football on the seaside and they are set to only improve, especially with exciting additions such as Ake.

Begovic, meanwhile, has been wasted at Stamford Bridge. The Bosnian is far too talented to play second fiddle and he would almost certainly become Bournemouth’s number one. Begovic is a top Premier League goalkeeper and deserves to be taking the field every week.

Again, at the age of 29, Begovic’s career is far from over. With goalkeepers capable of playing into their late 30s, he could form part of the Cherries’ spine as they establish themselves as a top flight club.

Bournemouth finished 16th in their inaugural Premier League campaign, depsite injuries to several key players. However, they caught the eye with their attacking and free-flowing brand of fearless football.

This term, they sit in 10th and could finish as high as 8th should results go their way on Sunday. Howe has shown himself to be one of the best young managers on the circuit and someone that young and/or aspiring players want to play for.

With that in mind, Ake and Begovic will find it hard to turn down an offer should it come. The only issue is whether Bournemouth are able to stump up the sizeable fee that the Blues will demand.