Chelsea Defender Joins Bournemouth on Season-Long Loan

​Chelsea youngster Nathan Ake has joined Bournemouth a season-long loan, the club announced, via their ​official website.
The 21-year-old - who could play both in defence and in midfield - will be a part of Eddie Howe's set-up for the upcoming season.

Ake spent the last campaign on loan at Watford, and impressed, making 32 appearances for the club and will now remain in the Premier League, albeit not at Chelsea, for another season, having gained good experience playing in the top flight for the Hornets.

“We are delighted to welcome Nathan to AFC Bournemouth,” said chief executive Neil Blake.

“For a player of his age he already has great experience in the Premier League and we believe he will bring a lot to our squad.

“He is an international player with great pedigree, so we are really excited to have him join us for the upcoming season.”

Ake joined Chelsea from Feyenoord as a 15-year-old back in 2010, making his Premier League debut that same year at 17, when he replaced Juan Mata towards the end of a 1-0 win against Norwich City.

His first start for the club came in an FA Cup tie in February of 2013, a game which the Blues won 2-0 against Middlesbrough.

He was also on the bench during the Europa League final against Benfica at the end of that season, watching his team claim a 2-1 victory to lift the trophy.