Paul Merson backs potential Arsenal move for defender Nathan Ake

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Former Arsenal star Paul Merson reckons Nathan Ake could be the man to improve the Gunners’ backline.

The Bournemouth defender has been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium in recent times, with Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur also mentioned as potential destinations.

Ake has been with the Cherries since 2017, signing permanently in the summer for £20 million (BBC Sport) after an initial loan spell.

The Netherlands international has really impressed for Eddie Howe’s side, showing the ability to play as part of a back four or a back five.

Should Bournemouth suffer relegation this season, he is widely expected to leave the Vitality Stadium, and Merson believes his old club must make themselves part of the conversation.

He said on Sky Sports’ The Debate (quoted by The Metro): “They need a centre-half and a world-class holding midfielder.

“I think Arsenal need to play with a back three. They’re not good enough as defenders to play as a four.

“Ake has pace and he’s played in England for a while, so if you brought him in for next season he’s not a player who will need time to get used to the league for six months.”

Arsenal signed Pablo Mari on loan in January, so any potential approach for Ake may depend on how the Spaniard fares.

TBR’s view – Ake would be a brilliant Arsenal signing

Ake would potentially be a really good addition for Arsenal, although a move is probably unlikely.

He has a lot of experience playing in three and four-man defences, which is particularly desirable, but he is still only 24.

If Mari’s time at the club doesn’t work out, then Ake is the man they should be going for.

With an 89% pass completion rate (WhoScored), he is the kind of ball-playing defender typically favoured by the Gunners