Eddie Howe suggests Nathan Ake is simply focusing on his recovery from injury right now, and there’s nothing going on relating to a potential transfer.

The English media are heavily linking Nathan Ake to a January transfer, with a number of Premier League clubs reportedly after him.

Ake is on Arsenal’s shortlist, after the injury to Calum Chambers and their defensive struggles. Manchester City and Chelsea are also following the 24-year-old, per various reports. Chelsea seem the most likely given rumours of a £40m buy-back clause.

Journalists asked Eddie Howe about the situation in his pre-Luton press conference. The manager suggested that despite the links, there hasn’t been any formal interest at this stage.

“Nothing to report on Nathan (Ake),” Howe said. “He is recovering well from his injury, we will see when he is back fit.”

Ake played every minute of Bournemouth’s Premier League campaign from the start of the season until December 7th, when he picked up a hamstring injury.

Perhaps the injury is no surprise, given the complete lack of rest. The point remains that he was a key part of their defence before that, and Howe will hope he stays that way. Bournemouth are definitely going to play hardball on this one.