Bournemouth have been defensively very fragile this season and have conceded 54 goals so far in the English top tier. Eddie Howe needs to invest a significant amount in rebuilding his defence. The departure of Nathan Ake had put Howe in a matter of dilemma as the Holland defender had been a part of his plans. Also, the five-match ban of Tyron Mings has put enormous pressure on the team for the next few games.
Three Defenders Bournemouth Should Target In The Summer
Nathan Ake
The 22-year-old joined Bournemouth on a season-long loan deal from Chelsea. He initially had to fight to force his way into the starting lineup. But once he slotted in, he has been a mainstay in the Cherries defence. He has featured in ten matches for Bournemouth and has jelled well with their fast paced attacking strategy. The defender also has the knack of surging ahead to help his team while attacking and has three goals in his tally.
Capable of playing in the left back also, he scored the all-important winning goal against Liverpool in the Premier League this season which defines his character. But a sudden call to Chelsea has changed all the equation. Impressed by his form, Antonio Conte decided to put an end to his loan spell and brought back the defender to Stamford Bridge. Howe did make a last gasp attempt by launching a bid of £18m on the deadline day but the move was rejected by the club. The Cherries should again make an attempt in the summer to re-sign the player.
George Friend
Middlesbrough have been defensively solid so far and the main reason is George Friend. The left back has been hugely impressive with his attacking display as well as with his defending. He had been adjudged the Boro player of the year in 2013 and 2014 and had also been named in the Championship team of the year. A veteran of many games he might be new to the Premier League atmosphere but a bid for him would be worth the risk.
Lewis Dunk
This Brighton and Hove Albion defender has been attracting interests from a number of clubs. The 24-year-old has been in brilliant form for the Championship club who are on the verge of getting promoted to the Premier League. Eddie Howe is known for nurturing talent and Bournemouth would be an ideal destination for Dunk. The defender has all the attributes to become a top rated defender and Howe should make a try to rope in the player.
