MANCHESTER CITY have signed Nathan Ake from Bournemouth for £41million.
The defender, 25, has described the move as a “dream” after penning a five-year deal.
Nathan Ake is under contract with Manchester City until 2025Credit: https://twitter.com/ManCity
Ake arrives at the Etihad as Pep Guardiola’s second summer signing after Ferran Torres.
After putting pen to paper, Ake told City’s club website: “City have been the best side in England over the course of the last decade.
“Coming here is a dream for me. This is a top side full of world-class players.
“Everywhere you look in this squad there are big names with international pedigree.
“Pep is a manager admired across the world – what he’s done in the game speaks for itself.
“The success he’s had is unbelievable and the style of football he plays really appeals to me.
“I know I’m going to have to work hard to get into the side, but that’s what I’m here to do.
“I’ll do whatever I can to make an impact and help the team win silverware.”
And he posted a farewell message to his beloved Bournemouth after the move was confirmed.
Speaking to his 716,000 Instagram followers, he said: “I want to say goodbye after a fantastic time at officialafcb.
“I want to thank everybody involved with the club for everything over the past years.
“I’ve had a fantastic few years playing at Dean Court learning so much and creating some amazing memories.
“Thank you to all the staff and players who made me feel welcome from the first minute.
“Because of you I m now able to make this next step.
“Lastly I would like to thank all the fans who’ve been amazing to me from the minute I arrived.
“Unfortunately we couldn’t bring this to a good end but I am sure we will see each other again in the future. Goodbye and see you soon.”
Ake started his career with Chelsea before being shipped out on loan to Reading, Watford and Bournemouth.
He went on to make 109 appearances for the Cherries after joining them permanently in 2017.
But he has decided to continue his career with City after Bournemouth were relegated from the Premier League this season.
Chelsea and Manchester United were among the long-list of clubs that had also been linked to him.
But City boss Guardiola had a £41million offer accepted for the Dutchman last week.
Guardiola is set to spend £300million on transfers this summer to close the gap on Liverpool.
Nathan Ake had also attracted interest from Manchester United and ChelseaCredit: PA:Press Association
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
