Newcastle United have entered the race to sign an "incredible" Manchester City star, whose future at the Etihad Stadium is up in the air.
Newcastle may be forced to reshape squad this summer
With the season edging ever closer to completion, it is looking increasingly likely Newcastle are set to miss out on European football altogether, having only managed to take 42 points from 31 Premier League matches.
As such, there has been plenty of speculation surrounding the futures of some of Eddie Howe's key players, and reporter Ciaran Kelly has suggested there could be one or two major departures in the summer.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe before the start of the match
Kelly said: "Newcastle have to become better sellers in order to reinvest in multiple areas of the side, and I don't see the club shying away from trading this summer.
"That does not mean that there will be a mass exodus, but I can certainly envisage a couple of key figures moving on for sizeable fees, along with a number of squad players."
Howe's own future has also been called into question, in light of failing to live up to expectations this season, with the True Geordie suggesting the PIF need to either back or sack the 48-year-old.
One of the manager's main issues has been his defence, having already shipped 45 Premier League, goals, which is just two short of the number they conceded across the entire 2024-25 campaign, and they have now joined the race for a defender.
"Incredible" Man City star on Magpies' radar
According to a report from Sports Boom, Newcastle are now eyeing a summer move for Man City star Nathan Ake, whose future at the Etihad Stadium is in doubt, having struggled to hold down a consistent place in Pep Guardiola's starting XI.
Chelsea are also in the race for the centre-back, who pockets £160k-a-week at Man City and would prefer to stay and earn his place, but would be 'attracted' to both Stamford Bridge and St. James' Park, should he decide to move on.
Howe is personally keen on signing the former AFC Bournemouth man, who he managed eight seasons ago, and he is certainly the calibre of player the Magpies should be looking to bring in.
Indeed, the 31-year-old has built up a wealth of experience at the highest level during his time with City, regularly competing in the Champions League and lifting 13 trophies.
Newcastle fans before Tyne-Wear derby Related
[Newcastle hold talks for "one of the best strikers in the world" who's "ready" to join](https://www.footballfancast.com/newcastle-hold-talks-for-psg-striker-goncalo-ramos-ready-to-join/ "Newcastle hold talks for "one of the best strikers in the world" who's "ready" to join")
Both Newcastle and Chelsea have held talks over the signing of a PSG star.
Hailed as "incredible" by Guardiola, the 58-cap Netherlands international could still have a lot to give at the top level, having put in a very impressive display against Arsenal in the 2-0 EFL Cup final victory, and Newcastle should make a move this summer.
Nathan Ake's key stats vs Arsenal Number completed
Clearances 5
Accurate passes 56/62 (90%)
Duels (won) 6 (5)
Last man tackles 1