Exit news: Man City ace once dubbed a ‘baller’ on the verge of departure; advanced talks held

Nathan Ake is now on the verge of a Manchester City exit after talks over a potential move to Premier League rivals Chelsea have advanced.

The Dutchman joined the Sky Blues back in 2020 but has struggled for game time, something which has seen him being linked with a move away from the Etihad in recent weeks, despite still having three years remaining on his contract.

The 27-year-old is believed to have been told that he can leave the club this summer, amid interest from Chelsea and Newcastle United.

It was first reported by Sky Sports last month that the London outfit had opened talks with City over a potential swoop for the centre-back, and following a fresh update, it seems as though Thomas Tuchel’s side have won the race for his signature.

In an article published by the Evening Standard, it’s claimed that Ake’s ongoing discussions with Chelsea are now said to be at a ‘more advanced’ stage, with the defender closing in on a move to Stamford Bridge.

The source states that City want to ‘recoup’ the £41m they spent when they initially bought him from Bournemouth, with that particular valuation ‘not expected to be a problem’ for the Blues.

The only sticking point currently holding the deal up is on City’s part, who are keen to wait to find a suitable replacement before letting their man leave.

Chelsea have also been in contact with the top-flight champions regarding a move for Raheem Sterling, who they hope to ‘finalise the signing’ of before flying out to America this weekend.

City allowing Ake to leave would be the right decision for both parties, and the 27-cap international will no doubt be keen on making the move elsewhere to get some regular minutes under his belt.

Last season, the 5 foot 9 gem, who was once