Everton look to be exploring a deal for Nathan Ake this summer in a strange turn of events.
David Moyes seems to be continuing his scouting of Man City players this summer, as Ake has emerged as an Everton target.
The Blues will know they need players with the experience to improve the club on and off the pitch, and having two treble winners in the squad isn’t bad going.
After it was confirmed by sources that the Dutchman was in the picture for the Toffees, Everton fans think Ake would be ‘unreal’.
It’s another signing that shows ambition, and what Jack Grealish has said shows exactly why this deal must happen.
Nathan Ake in action at the Club World Cup.
Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Jack Grealish thinks Everton target Nathan Ake was ‘unbelievable’ in treble-winning season
A player like the 30-year-old would show the transfer intent needed from the owners, as they aren’t only getting a player who knows what it takes to win, but also versatility.
With six Premier League-winning seasons to his name, both at Chelsea and Man City, he’s proven to be a key player under Guardiola.
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Moyes wants players with ‘character’, and after what Grealish said to the Man City website in 2023, the Scotsman could get this and more.
“Nathan’s so strong defensively, and I think he’s been unbelievable this season and one of our standout players,” Grealish claimed.
“And I think a lot of City fans would say that also.
“He works so hard every day on the training field, and when he gets the ball, he just gives it to me all the time.
“And that’s what you want as a winger. You want your full-back to keep feeding you.
“But then, when I am tracking back, you feel so safe with Nathan behind us.”
To have that option of Ake would instantly improve the Toffees’ left side, and with Moyes wanting more possession at Everton, the defender brings the Guardiola trait with him.
Nathan Ake needs a starting role again and Everton can provide that
After last season, it was certainly a downgrade for the Dutchman from what had been a success in Manchester.
Ake was given just ten league appearances, but injuries obviously played their part, and with Jarrad Branthwaite out for six weeks, Moyes will have to tread lightly when signing these types of players.
But it seems like Rayan Ait-Nouri has come in and stolen that left-back spot from the 30-year-old, and he needs to find a starting place somewhere else.
Where else better than the Toffees, as not only would he become one of the star players, but to have that connection with Grealish from the off would not only get the best out of him, but also the winger.
It really seems like a no-brainer for The Friedkin Group.