Bournemouth pay record fee for Dutchman Ake

London (AFP) – Dutch international Nathan Ake became Premier League side Bournemouth’s record signing on Friday as they paid a reported £20 million ($26m, 22.8m euros) to champions Chelsea for his services.

The 22-year-old central defender — who is Bournemouth’s third signing of the close season following those of Bosnian international goalkeeper Asmir Begovic and veteran England striker Jermain Defoe — shone for the “Cherries” when on loan from Chelsea last season.

Ake, who notably scored the winner for Bournemouth in a remarkable come from behind 4-3 win over Liverpool before returning to Chelsea in January, said he could progress more as a player at his new club as playing opportunities at the champions were scarce.

“I had a great time here last season so I’m really happy to be back,” Ake told the club website.

“It’s an exciting challenge. Chelsea is a great club and I learned so much there but this is a new step and the right place for me to develop even more.

“The fans haven’t seen the best of me yet. I always set the bar high so I know there is a lot of things I still have to work on.

“With the help of the manager here I know I can keep improving and become a better player.”

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe, who finalised Defoe’s move on a free transfer on Thursday, said he was delighted to have persuaded the two-times capped Ake to join the club on a permanent basis.

“I am delighted that we have completed the signing of Nathan on a permanent basis,” said Howe.

“He is someone we know all about, having had a very successful loan spell here last season.

“Nathan is an outstanding young player with a fantastic attitude and a great desire to learn and develop.

“He has a very bright future ahead of him and I’m very pleased to say that future is here.”