Chelsea are lining up an offer to re-sign Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake, according to reports both in the Spanish and the English media.

It has been claimed that the Blues are eyeing up a possible return for the Dutchman if the player were to be relegated with the Cherries.

Chelsea sold the Ake for £20m three years ago, but they inserted a £40m buyback clause just in case they wanted to re-sign the centre-back.

The 25-year-old has continued to impress the London club’s scouts since his departure, although it appears they would still be hesitant about paying full price for the player.

Ake could be available for a lower amount if Eddie Howe’s team were to drop out of the top flight. It is thought no approach will be made until the end of the Premier League campaign when it will be known what division Bournemouth will be playing in next season.