A battle between West Ham and Newcastle United for the services of Manchester City’s Nathan Ake is seen as a “no-brainer” in favour of the London side, according to EuroSport.
What’s the latest Newcastle United transfer news?
Having worked with Eddie Howe before, the former Bournemouth star has been linked with a loan move to St James’ Park as the club desperately try and stave off relegation. Experienced in the Premier League, Ake is certainly a logical target given he’d surely be an improvement on what Howe currently has at his disposal and could come in without having to bed into a new league.
However, West Ham are believed to be keen after their recent spate of defensive injuries, and their lofty Premier League position is seen as a more tempting move if he is to leave the Etihad Stadium on a temporary basis.
Has this happened before?
Sadly, yes.
Last year, Jesse Lingard is thought to have snubbed the idea of a loan move to Newcastle in favour of joining West Ham, where he excelled.
Frankly, as much excitement as the takeover has naturally caused, it’s hard to blame any player for being tempted by a move to a club like West Ham at the moment. Indeed, there’s a very distinct possibility they could qualify for the Champions League and are set for the last-16 of the Europa League.
What has been said about Nathan Ake and Newcastle?
Speaking on the Touchline Talk Podcast last month, transfer expert Dean Jones said: “Yeah, I have heard had that Nathan Ake one [rumour].
“It’s one that Eddie Howe is going to push for.
“Obviously, he’s not making all the decisions in terms of recruitment at this point at Newcastle and they’re going to have a team of people who decide these things but Ake is somebody he feels can fit in and might become available.”