Bournemouth had approaches for Chelsea duo rejected, boss confirms

Eddie Howe has admitted Bournemouth made an approach to bring Nathan Ake back from Chelsea.

The Dutchman was earlier this month recalled by the Blues from his loan spell with Howe’s side.

He played in Chelsea’s 4-0 win over Brentford in the FA Cup on Saturday but was not included in the matchday squad for the 1-1 draw at Liverpool on Tuesday.

Speaking to Sky Sports after Bournemouth’s defeat by Crystal Palace, Howe said: “We had discussions with Chelsea.

“We made an enquiry about bringing him back on loan or permanently. They were denied.”

Bournemouth had also made an offer for Chelsea goalkeeper Asmir Begovic.

However, that was turned down after the Blues failed to find a replacement, with Celtic rebuffing a bid for Craig Gordon.

Begovic was named in the Chelsea squad for the game at Anfield.