Everton are set to target a new centre-back this summer – and Nathan Ake just furthered his case for a pursuit by the Toffees.
Everton have had four great centre-back options in recent times, but it’s likely time for a refresh.
James Tarkowski and Michael Keane are both 33, so a younger option is surely required.
Would you like to see Everton sign Nathan Ake this summer? 🔥
Moyes would love his versatility in defence! 👏
Plus, we’ve been reminded this term that Jarrad Branthwaite struggles to stay fit.
Interest in Nathan Ake has been reported again in recent weeks, with the star set to leave Manchester City this summer.
And yesterday, the Dutchman gave a performance that should prompt Everton to come calling.
Everton target Nathan Ake shines vs Brentford
Yesterday Manchester City took on Brentford at the Etihad Stadium – and did Everton a bit of a favour by beating the Bees.
There’s still an outside chance of European football for Everton, so Brentford – who are three points ahead of Everton – losing was ideal.
An injury to Abdukodir Khusanov saw Ake come into the backline for City.
And it really was a near-faultless performance from the 31-year-old next to Marc Guehi.
As per Sofascore data, Ake made five defensive actions in the game, and used the ball well, completing 51/60 (85%) passes. One of these was deemed a ‘key’ pass.
Local news outlet the Manchester Evening News were left impressed by Ake, handing him an 8/10 rating and saying: “Stepped in for Khusanov with no worries, reading the game perfectly to keep the Brentford attack quiet.”
Only Jeremy Doku was rated higher.
There was also a lot of love for Ake on social media from City fans.
Ake is the perfect Everton signing
Ake really would make a tremendous signing for Everton.
Ultimately, he is a dependable defender who has spent many years in the Premier League now.
| Ake in PL this season |
| Appearances – 16 |
| Minutes played – 579 |
| Pass completion – 89% |
| Clearances – 30 |
| Aerial duels won – 15 |
| Ground duels won – 16 |
| Chances created – 7 |
While he falls into the ‘no frills’ category of defender, Ake can also play. You don’t play that long at Manchester City if you cannot play out from the back.
Ake is also versatile, and his ability to play left-back is bound to appeal to David Moyes.
Everton are after bringing back Jack Grealish after his loan spell, and following him up with a move for Ake as well feels like a really smart move, and one that should not be too expensive.
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