Paul Robinson believes Dutch international linked with Spurs would be cheap at £40million

Paul Robinson believes that Tottenham Hotspur could land themselves a bargain with a move for Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake.

Ake is one of many names to be linked with a move to Spurs in the summer transfer window, with Jose Mourinho reportedly targetting a defensive rebuild in the summer (Tthe Express).

Jan Vertonghen could be one of the defenders on their way out of the club, with the Belgian’s contract running out at the end of the season.

The experienced centre half has struggled to hit his usual high standards this season and has found himself in and out of the starting eleven.

Ake, who has been consistent at the back for Bournemouth for the last three seasons, is said to be Jose Mourinho’s prefered target to replace Vertonghen.

Football Insider claims that the Cherries value the defender at around £40 million. Robinson claimed that while Ake does have weaknesses to his game, he will be great value for money for the reported price.

The former Spurs goalkeeper told Football Insider: “At £40million, it’s a cheap price for a player of that quality. For a fee at that level, you’re getting a good player.

“He’s had another good season, for me he’s just not big enough for a centre-half, he’s not quite tall enough, not imposing enough but I think he makes up for that in other areas and he’s a top-quality centre-half.”

Spurs Web Opinion

I believe Ake will be a natural replacement for Vertonghen given his characteristics. He will also be a perfect option for the lop-sided back three/back four that Mourinho seems to employ where the left-back essentially has to operate as a left centre back when the team has the ball going forward.