Manchester City eye Ake replacements ahead of Chelsea return

Manchester City could spark a bidding war for Sevilla centre-back Jules Koundé, with Chelsea and Barcelona also monitoring the situation.

City’s interest, however, is dependent on whether or not Chelsea will complete the signing of Nathan Aké, after agreeing personal terms with the defender last week, Mail Sport reports.

Aké left Chelsea for Bournemouth in 2017 after five years and numerous loan spells with the club, before signing for City in 2020 on a five-year deal.

The West-London side are also interested in Juventus’ Matthijs de Ligt, meaning City could have an easier chance to obtain the sought-after signature of Kounde.

Would Jules Kounde fit in at Manchester City?

Jules Kounde would provide a direct solution for the defensive hole left if Aké departs Manchester this summer. The French international would be a suitable fit in Guardiola’s side given his capability to play out possession from the back.

He is good on the ball, a physically strong player and can play on the right side of a back three or even as a right wing-back, if needed.

He would be utilised alongside experienced centre-backs in either Ruben Dias or Aymeric Laporte in a team that are adamant about keeping clean sheets, with Ederson being awarded yet another Golden Glove at the end of the 21/22 Premier League campaign.

Despite his young age, Kounde has experience at the highest level. He has cemented his place as first-choice centre-back for his club and played games in the Champions League and Europa League, as well as being called up to France’s star-studded senior national team a number of times.

RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol another option for Man City?

Another possible Aké alternative for Manchester City is Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol, who has been dubbed one of finest under-21 talents across Europe. Similarly to Kounde, the Croatian has played in the Champions League and Europa League and has made over 60 senior appearances so far.

The 20-year-old has also featured in Croatia’s national team in both their EURO 2020 campaign and recent World Cup qualifiers.

It has been reported that a move is unlikely in this window, though, as Leipzig are keen to cling onto their man for the foreseeable future.

However, with the funds City are capable of offering as well as the promise of playing for the reigning Premier League champions, Gvardiol may take it upon himself to advocate a move to England.

Chelsea and Manchester City are also reported to have done business already this summer, with Raheem Sterling set to move to London following a £47.5million bid from Thomas Tuchel’s team. Once the deal is complete, could they be funding a potential move for one of their own transfer targets to head Manchester’s way?