Manchester United chose not to pursue the transfer of new Manchester City signing Nathan Ake despite showing initial interest.
Man City announced on Wednesday that Ake has signed a five-year deal, keeping him at the Etihad Stadium until the summer of 2025.
Despite being involved in Bournemouth’s relegation side, Ake is still recognised as one of the Premier League’s most competent ball-playing centre-backs and still has plenty of potential.
The Dutch international had plenty of potential suitors this summer, but joined Pep Guardiola’s side who are known for their transitional play from defence to attack.
However, it has been noted in a fascinating in-depth article by the Athletic that United and Chelsea also shared an interest in Ake before his switch.
The Athletic report that United ultimately decided Ake was not the type of central defender they needed, despite Ole Gunnar Solskjaer telling the 25-year-old in July after the Reds beat his Bournemouth side at Old Trafford, “We need a left-footed centre-back so keep going.”
Bournemouth conceded 65 goals in the league this season, and United believed Ake did not do enough to change the Cherries’ fortunes at the back.
There is no doubting Ake is a highly talented defender and we expect him to succeed under the tutelage of Guardiola with better players around him.
Meanwhile, United must still consider signing a centre-back this summer to provide competition for starters Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof.
We’re excited to announce the signing of @NathanAke from Bournemouth on a five-year deal ✍️
🔵 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re pic.twitter.com/6tyYQ2OVwv
— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 5, 2020
READ MORE: Premier League clubs reject controversial rule change that affects Man United
