Chelsea are eager to bolster their backline and Manchester City star Nathan Ake would 'fit the bill perfectly' at Stamford Bridge, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

Ake has been linked with a move back to west London having previously made 17 senior appearances after coming through the ranks with the Blues.

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

What's the latest news involving Ake?

According to the Telegraph, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel admires Ake’s skillset and would be interested in sealing the central defender's return to Stamford Bridge.

The report suggests Tuchel, who has been in the Blues' dugout since his appointment in January 2021, holds a long-term interest dating back to his time in charge of Borussia Dortmund.

It appears he could finally get his man as Ake has reportedly been told he can leave Manchester City before the transfer window closes on September 1.

However, that development has led to further interest from Newcastle United, with Magpies head coach Eddie Howe also being a fan.

Although they are open to sanctioning Ake's departure, Manchester City have slapped a £50million price tag on the 27-year-old.

What has Pete O'Rourke said about Ake?

O'Rourke believes Chelsea are in desperate need of a new central defender and Ake would be the ideal acquisition.

The journalist has urged Tuchel to head to the negotiating table as the Dutchman would take no time adjusting to his surroundings.

Darwin Nunez to Liverpool! Done Deal! Hear more on The Football Terrace...

O'Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: "I think a left-sided centre-back is something they need and, obviously, Ake fits the bill perfectly.

"He would need no time to adapt if he did move back to Chelsea because he's been there before.

"I think, for that reason, he could be a signing who would maybe hit the ground running if Chelsea do follow up their interest."

Why do Chelsea need a new centre-back?

Prior to Todd Boehly's £4.25billion takeover, Chelsea were unable to negotiate transfers or fresh contracts with current stars due to previous owner Roman Abramovich being sanctioned.

That hit the Blues hard and resulted in Antonio Rudiger joining Real Madrid, while Andreas Christensen's deal will expire in a matter of days.

Their departures have left Tuchel with a sizeable void to fill and although Ethan Ampadu and Matt Miazga have returned from loans overseas, they are unlikely to be the answer if Chelsea want to mount a title challenge.

With that being the case, Ake - a 27-cap Netherlands international - could be the perfect solution for the west Londoners.